Which of the following best describes functional grief in the context of stress and coping?

• A. A type of grief that allows individuals to adapt and continue daily functioning despite their loss
• B. A temporary emotional response that is always resolved within a week
• C. A physiological reaction to stress that does not involve any emotional processing
• D. A form of grief that leads to chronic depression and inability to perform daily tasks

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of grief in psychology, which refers to the emotional response to loss, particularly the loss of a loved one.
2. Step 2: Recognize that 'functional grief' is a type of grief that enables individuals to process their loss while maintaining their ability to function in daily life, such as continuing work, social interactions, and self-care.
3. Step 3: Differentiate functional grief from other types of grief or stress responses, such as temporary emotional responses that resolve quickly, purely physiological reactions without emotional processing, or maladaptive grief leading to chronic depression and dysfunction.
4. Step 4: Identify that functional grief involves adaptive coping mechanisms, allowing the person to experience emotions related to loss but still manage responsibilities and daily activities effectively.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best description of functional grief is the one emphasizing adaptation and continued daily functioning despite the experience of loss.