Which of the following is NOT listed as a phase of transition after traumatic events?

• A. Bargaining phase
• B. Denial phase
• C. Anger phase
• D. Depression phase

Answer: (A)

When someone goes through a traumatic event, emotional responses are often described as a sequence of reactions that help them cope. Denial, anger, and depression are frequently recognized parts of this process, with accepting the reality of what happened marking a move toward adjustment. Bargaining, on the other hand, is a reaction more closely tied to grief and loss, where a person tries to make deals or promises in hopes of reversing or lessening the impact of what happened. It fits the pattern of coping after a loss, rather than a standard phase described for transitioning after trauma. That’s why bargaining is not listed as a phase in this context, making it the best choice. The other options—denial, anger, and depression—are commonly described as part of the trauma transition process.