Sam's five-year-old son has just been brought into the emergency room after a serious motor vehicle accident. Sam, frightened and crying promised God that he would never be mad at his son, for any reason, if he would be OK. Sam is in what stage of grieving?

A. Denial Denial involves refusing to believe the event happened (e.g., “This can’t be real”). B. Acceptance Acceptance occurs later, when the person has come to terms with the loss. C. Bargaining Bargaining is when the individual attempts to make deals or promises (often with God or fate) in exchange for a desired outcome, common in early grief stages. D. Depression Depression involves deep sadness and withdrawal, not negotiating or making deals.