In 1969 Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, published "On Death and Dying" and pointed to our lack of knowledge about, and by extension, our inability to care for, the dying. Her work in describing five stages patients go through has almost entered the 'folklore' of thanatological literature. Medical students used the acronym DABDA when studying for exams:
 | DENIAL AND ISOLATION - "NO, NOT ME, IT CANNOT BE TRUE." |
| ANGER - "WHY ME.". |
| BARGAINING - "YES ME ... BUT" |
| DEPRESSION - "YES ME." |
| ACCEPTANCE - "IT'S OKAY." |
The 'Stage Theory' and Kubler-Ross have been the subject of
often cynical questioning in recent years. Difficulties with the research method
have not been addressed in over 25 years. Nor is there any verification of the
existence of the Five Stages or that if they exist, people progress through them
in any orderly fashion.
The supposed universality of the stages sometimes results in patients being
herded along to 'the next stage' by family, support and medical personnel. In
other words, the 'description' has become the 'prescription'. The theory denies
the individuality of human beings and other needs of the dying such as having
some control in their own treatment and destiny, the role of culture, religion,
personality, family dynamics and so on.
However, as Kastenbaum (1998) points out:
"Nevertheless, several valuable contributions of Kubler-Ross' approach, including the stage theory, should be kept in mind. The value of her work in awakening society's sensitivity to the needs of dying people has not been called into question. Accepting the stage theory is not essential for appreciation of her many useful observations and insights. Furthermore, it is not necessary that the stage theory be accepted or rejected in all of its particulars. Careful and appropriate research is still welcome."
Kubler-Ross herself, and her theories have become the subject of much recent scrutiny. To some, she is a charlatan who borrowed freely from the works of her colleagues without acknowledging their contribution and whose theories do not bear up under close scrutiny. For examples of the opposition read Heather Robinson's article, Over My Dead Body, and The TLC's article ' Beware the Five Stages'. Speaking in support is Claudia Chamberson of ABC News in her two part news report, Elisabeth Kubler-Ross Talks About Her Own Last Stage", Part One, Part Two