Which of the following is NOT a form of maladaptive grief?

• A. Delayed Grief
• B. Distorted (Exaggerated) Grief
• C. Chronic/Prolonged Grief
• D. Anticipatory Grief

Answer: (D)

Anticipatory grief is not considered a form of maladaptive grief. The main idea here is that some grief processes are adaptive and help people prepare for an impending loss, cope with the incoming changes, and plan for practical needs. Anticipatory grief occurs before the actual death or loss and can reduce shock and distress when the loss happens, making the transition smoother in many cases.

In contrast, the other patterns described—delayed grief (grief that is postponed or suppressed and emerges later), distorted or exaggerated grief (intense, inappropriate, or dysfunctional emotional responses), and chronic/prolonged grief (prolonged, persistent grief that disrupts functioning)—are typically viewed as maladaptive because they interfere with daily functioning and long-term adjustment. So the best choice is anticipatory grief, because it represents a pre-loss coping process rather than a dysfunctional post-loss reaction.