In which stage of dying might a person try to bargain for more time?

The stage of dying where a person might try to bargain for more time is known as bargaining. During this phase, individuals may attempt to negotiate with a higher power or engage in a mental dialogue where they promise to change their behaviors or live life differently in exchange for more time. This can be viewed as a coping mechanism, where they seek to regain control over their situation or postpone the inevitable. It reflects a deep desire to prolong life and can manifest as thoughts along the lines of “If only I could just have a little bit more time…”

In contrast, the other stages represent different emotional responses to the process of dying. Denial involves refusing to accept the reality of the situation, leading to avoidance of the truth. Anger emerges as a natural reaction to the feelings of helplessness, as individuals might feel resentment toward the circumstances they face. Acceptance is the final stage, where a person comes to terms with their situation, embracing their reality without bargaining for change. Thus, bargaining distinctly characterizes a phase where individuals actively seek to negotiate for more time in an emotional effort to cope with their impending loss.