What stage of grief involves looking for ways to postpone or prevent the inevitable?

The stage of grief that involves looking for ways to postpone or prevent the inevitable is bargaining. In this phase, individuals often seek to negotiate or make deals, either with themselves or a higher power, in the hopes that these actions might change the outcome of their situation. For example, a person may promise to alter their behaviors, such as leading a better life or adhering to certain beliefs, in exchange for more time with a loved one or to avoid specific distressing events. This stage is characterized by a sense of desperation and a feeling of powerlessness, leading individuals to try and regain control over circumstances that feel beyond their reach.

The other stages, such as denial, acceptance, and anger, while also critical components of the grieving process, reflect different emotional responses that do not primarily focus on negotiation or a desire to prevent a situation. Denial often involves refusing to accept reality, acceptance signifies coming to terms with loss, and anger expresses frustration or rage over the situation, none of which encapsulate the essence of seeking to delay or alter the inevitable as bargaining does.