In anticipatory grief, the 'work of worry' is most closely related to which behavior?

• A. Role rehearsal
• B. Avoidance
• C. Denial
• D. Acceptance

Answer: (A)

Anticipatory grief involves doing mental and practical work before a loss occurs to ease the transition. The “work of worry” is the process of thinking ahead and preparing for what life will be like afterward. Role rehearsal fits this idea because it means practicing the duties, conversations, and routines that will come with the loss, giving you a sense of control and competence before the change happens. This proactive preparation turns worry into actionable steps, reducing uncertainty.

Avoidance would mean steering away from thinking about the loss, denial minimizes the reality of what’s coming, and acceptance focuses on adjusting to the new situation rather than actively rehearsing roles in advance.