What stage often leads victims to feelings of despondency?

The stage that often leads victims to feelings of despondency is depression. This stage involves profound feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and often a sense of despair regarding the situation. Victims may struggle with intense emotions and can feel overwhelmed by their circumstances, leading to a withdrawal from social interactions and a lack of motivation or energy. This contrasts with other stages like acceptance, which is characterized by coming to terms with the reality of the situation; denial, where individuals may refuse to acknowledge the problem; and bargaining, which entails efforts to negotiate for a different outcome. Thus, depression is a critical stage where individuals may experience significant emotional distress and hopelessness, making it a pivotal point for many victims dealing with trauma or family violence.