Loss

A loss is a decrease in the quantity of something, usually something desirable. With regard to personal performance, it may be (for example) a decrease in skill, or wealth, or social status, or happiness.

In general, when a person experiences a loss, their level of happiness is reduced. The degree of reduction varies with the value of thing lost. For something extremely valuable, such as a close family member, the loss often causes intense sadness.

Studies have shown that most people are loss averse. That is, even when the probability of a comparable gain or loss is identical, they will usually opt to avoid loss.

A loss may be temporary or permanent.

All life sustainment actions are directed at preventing or recovering from a loss of some kind.

The process of aging often causes sadness because it gradually results in substantial loss: of one’s health, friends, vitality, independence, and dignity.