Which emotional response is least likely to occur in reaction to illness?

Relief is the least likely emotional response that one may experience in reaction to illness because individuals typically associate illness with negative feelings and distress. When someone is confronted with an illness, it often triggers emotions such as fear, anxiety, or sadness due to the uncertainties surrounding health outcomes, treatment, and life changes that may arise.

In contrast, feelings of anger, shock, and shame are more commonly reported in response to illness. Anger may arise from a sense of injustice or frustration regarding the situation, shock can occur as a direct reaction to receiving a diagnosis, and shame might develop if individuals feel they are judged for their health status or perceived lifestyle choices. Therefore, relief is not a standard emotional response in this context, making it the least likely option.