The Other Side of Sadness

In this title, a leading expert in the field of emotions research challenges the conventional model of the 'Five Stages of Grief' offering fascinating new insights on the bereavement process and the ways in which we find positive meaning in loss. In "The Other Side of Sadness", psychologist and emot [...]
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In this title, a leading expert in the field of emotions research challenges the conventional model of the 'Five Stages of Grief' offering fascinating new insights on the bereavement process and the ways in which we find positive meaning in loss. In "The Other Side of Sadness", psychologist and emotions expert George Bonanno highlights a complete rejection of the widely-accepted theory of grief model established by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, which notes five distinct stages we go through during loss and bereavement. Until now, we have come to understand grief as a predictable and straightforward process of: denial; anger; bargaining; depression; and, acceptance. But in this paradigm-shifting new look at loss and life, George Bonanno proves otherwise: he argues that this process discounts our universal ability to be resilient, and does not allow for exceptions, which ultimately does a disservice to those in need.Weaving in fascinating explorations of Chinese mourning rituals, case studies from families who lost a loved one during 9/11, and more, Bonanno offers a refreshing new discussion of cultural differences surrounding loss and healing-something most books about grief gloss over - and argues that we are much more capable than we know. Grief is an emotion largely associated with suffering, denial, anger, and other negative emotional states, but George Bonanno explores growth and change in great detail, and points out how certain types of grief can actually deepen interpersonal connections and, in some cases, lead to a profound new sense of meaning in life. "The Other Side of Sadness" reveals a surprisingly positive perspective on death and dying, which will be a must-read for those going through the death of a loved one, people in the mental health professions looking for a different approach to a universal experience, and readers of general science books on the human mind and positive psychology.