Masked or repressed grief can be manifested as physical symptoms, psychiatric symptoms, or which of the following EXCEPT?

• A. Delinquent behavior
• B. Physical symptoms
• C. Psychiatric symptoms
• D. Sadness and crying

Answer: (D)

Masking grief means the emotional pain is expressed through signs other than overt sadness—like bodily complaints, behavioral changes, or psychiatric symptoms—rather than through direct, open mourning. In that sense, physical symptoms and psychiatric symptoms can reflect underlying grief that’s being expressed indirectly. Delinquent behavior can also be a way grief is expressed when emotions are repressed or transformed into actions. Sadness and crying, on the other hand, are direct, outward expressions of grief and are not considered a masked presentation. They typically accompany ordinary bereavement rather than conceal it.