Anticipatory Grief can occur in which scenario?

• A. After the loss occurs
• B. During the mourning period after a terminal diagnosis
• C. Before the loss occurs
• D. The concept does not apply to grief

Answer: (C)

Anticipatory grief is the emotional response to an impending loss, experienced before the actual death or separation occurs. When a loved one has a terminal illness, the reality of losing them is anticipated, and people may start to grieve now—feeling sadness, fear, anger, or guilt, and sometimes making plans or saying goodbye in advance. This pre-loss processing helps some people cope when the loss happens, though it can also complicate adjustment if not managed.

That’s why the scenario describing the loss before it occurs is the best match. Grief after the loss would be bereavement, not anticipatory grief, and the idea that the concept doesn’t apply isn’t accurate because anticipatory grief is a recognized experience in the face of expected loss.