Bereaved individuals experiencing delayed grief reactions are characterized by which description?

• A. Masked grief
• B. Disenfranchised grief
• C. Delayed grief
• D. Chronic grief

Answer: (C)

Delayed grief is a pattern where the emotional response to a loss is postponed, so the person may seem to cope or function normally for a time and only later experience sadness, longing, or other grief reactions when something triggers memories or stress. This timing difference is the hallmark, distinguishing it from immediate grief responses. Masked grief involves grief symptoms hidden behind other behaviors or physical symptoms, not a delayed onset. Disenfranchised grief is grief that isn’t openly acknowledged or supported by others, focusing on social recognition rather than timing. Chronic grief refers to grief that remains intense and persistent over a long period, not specifically delayed in onset.