Which combination best describes families that cope best with the death of a family member?

• A. High cohesion and tolerance of individual differences
• B. Low communication and high secrecy
• C. Rigid roles and uniform beliefs
• D. Isolated emotional expression with no openness

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that families cope best with death when they are emotionally connected while also allowing individual ways of grieving. High cohesion gives members a sense of belonging and mutual support, so people can lean on each other, share memories, and coordinate help. At the same time, tolerance of individual differences means each person experiences grief in their own style and at their own pace, without pressure to act a certain way. This combination reduces conflict, supports open communication, and lets the family adapt roles and routines as needed, which strengthens resilience during bereavement.

Low communication and high secrecy hinder shared processing of the loss, leaving members isolated and uncertain how to support one another. Rigid roles and uniform beliefs limit flexibility and prevent adapting to new circumstances after the death. Isolated emotional expression with no openness blocks the those grieving from receiving and giving support.