What psychological term describes a reaction to loss occurring over time?

The psychological term that best describes a reaction to loss occurring over time is mourning. Mourning encompasses the processes and rituals individuals engage in after experiencing a significant loss, such as the death of a loved one. This reaction is characterized by a range of emotional responses, including sadness, anger, guilt, and confusion, which can evolve and change over time as individuals work through their grief.

Mourning is not fixed to a specific timeframe and can vary significantly from person to person. It reflects the personal and societal ways people cope with grief, encompassing different cultural practices and individual experiences. This term captures the complexity and duration of the grieving process, highlighting that it is a journey rather than a singular event.

The other terms provided refer to different aspects associated with loss. Acceptance generally refers to the acknowledgment of reality and the beginning of adjustment to life without the deceased. Coping refers to the strategies and methods individuals use to deal with stress and emotional pain. Resilience describes the ability to bounce back from difficulties and adapt to challenges. While these concepts are related to how individuals respond to loss, mourning specifically illustrates the enduring and evolving nature of the emotional response to grief.