Kübler-Ross Change Curve

Definition

The Kübler-Ross Change Curve is a model that outlines the various stages of personal response to change, particularly focusing on the emotional journey through transitions and upheavals. Originally developed by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in her 1969 book “On Death and Dying,” the model was initially intended to describe the progression of emotions experienced by terminally ill patients upon learning of their prognosis. However, it has since been widely adopted in various fields to explain human reactions to different forms of loss and change, including in organizational and personal contexts.

In addition to personal contexts, this framework/concept is used when dealing with employees who are resistant to change.

When discussing the emotional response category of reactions to change, I think it’s important to work through the steps of the Kübler-Ross Change Curve, also known as the five stages of grief^[i]. Yes, that sounds a bit dramatic for a discussion on digital transformation, but since its initial application to reactions to death and dying, it has been successfully and rather broadly applied to organizational and other personal change^[ii].

Figure 3.1.1 The Kübler-Ross Change Curve

Stages of the Change Curve

As you can see in the figure above (Figure 3.1.1) we ultimately reach acceptance after a series of steps. The Kübler-Ross Change Curve encompasses several key emotional stages:

Denial: Initially, individuals may refuse to acknowledge the change due to the shock of the news.
Anger: As the reality of the situation sets in, feelings of frustration and helplessness may arise.
Bargaining: Individuals may attempt to negotiate a way to avoid or minimize the impact of the change.
Depression: Acknowledgment of the reality leads to sadness and despair as the full impact of the change is felt.
Acceptance: Eventually, individuals come to terms with the change, finding ways to move forward.

Importance in Understanding Change Management

The Kübler-Ross Change Curve is particularly valuable in change management within organizations. Understanding this model helps managers and leaders anticipate and mitigate resistance by recognizing where employees are in the process of accepting change. This insight enables the implementation of targeted strategies to support individuals as they navigate through their emotional responses, facilitating a smoother transition and more effective adaptation to new circumstances.

Applications Beyond Grief

While originally focused on grief and loss, the application of the Kübler-Ross Change Curve has extended to a broad range of situations involving personal change, such as career transitions, organizational restructuring, or even societal changes. By applying this model, individuals and organizations can better prepare for the reactions that typically accompany significant changes, leading to more compassionate and effective management strategies.

Conclusion

The Kübler-Ross Change Curve offers a profound insight into the human condition, providing a structured understanding of how people emotionally adapt to change. By mapping the emotional journey from denial to acceptance, the model serves as a valuable tool in both personal and professional realms, aiding individuals and organizations alike in navigating the complex dynamics of change. Its enduring relevance in various fields underscores its universality and the intrinsic nature of human responses to change.

[i] Kubler-Ross E. On Death and Dying. New York: Simon & Schuster, Inc.; 1969.

[ii] . Anastasia. Understanding the Kubler-Ross Change Curve. Cleverism; 2015. Available from: https://www.cleverism.com/ understanding-kubler-ross-change-curve/. [Last accessed on 2022 June 12].

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