Funeral Service Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Prep Resource

Normal grief is characterized as an expected emotional response to loss. When individuals experience the death of a loved one or face other significant losses, it is natural for them to go through a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, confusion, and even relief, depending on the circumstances surrounding the loss. This response is part of the grieving process, which can vary widely from person to person, but generally encompasses a timeline and stages that are commonly understood and recognized by both psychological research and cultural practices.

Normal grief is widely accepted and acknowledged in society, differing from the idea of more complex or unresolved grief that might require intervention or professional support. While individuals outside the immediate family can experience grief (contrary to being limited only to immediate family), the essence of normal grief is its recognition as a universal and shared human experience that aligns with societal norms surrounding loss.