Question

The "anniversary reaction", as applied to widowhood, refers to the: a. increase in mortality in the months following loss of a spouse. b. unwillingness of widows to date for a year after the spouse's death. c. renewed feelings of loss near the date of the spouse's death. d. feelings of relief after a long period of caregiving has ended.

Answer 1

The 'anniversary reaction' in reference to widowhood pertains to the resurgence of sorrow and loss that might resurge near the anniversary of the spouse's death.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term 'anniversary reaction' in the context of widowhood, refers to renewed feelings of loss near the date of the spouse's death. It involves experiencing fresh grief and distress that can mirror the emotions felt when the loss initially occurred. This reaction is common amongst those grieving as our minds and bodies remember the traumatic experience on the anniversary of the event, hence its name.

For instance, if a widow lost their spouse on March 1st, they might feel a resurgence of grief and sadness around that specific date each year.

This phenomenon is not limited to just the loss of a spouse, but can occur for any significant loss or traumatic event experienced.

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