Graduate Research Papers

Availability

Graduate Research Paper (UNI Access Only)

Keywords

Bereaved persons--Services for; Parents--Services for; Children--Death--Social aspects;

Abstract

The death of a child often results in long-term emotional, physical, and relational challenges for parents. This research investigates how posttraumatic growth (PTG) may emerge in the aftermath of such a loss and whether it can foster positive transformation in bereaved parents. This study focuses on three core questions— Does PTG reduce the risk of health-related issues experienced by bereaved parents? Does PTG increase the likelihood of improved relationships within and outside of marital relationships for those who have experienced the loss of a child? Can the loss of a child lead to significant personal growth for bereaved parents? Current literature is reviewed in this study to assess the potential for healing through adversity. The literature review indicates grief and PTG can exist in tandem. Grief can significantly impact well-being, but PTG offers a path to resilience, strengthened relationships, and renewed life purpose. Factors contributing to PTG include social support, effective coping strategies, and targeted healthcare and mental health services interventions. This study also points out critical gaps in the literature, including the need for more diverse samples and longitudinal research, along with implications for future research, such as being aware of and reducing bias. Implications for supporting bereaved parents include support groups and peer-to-peer interaction. Clinical practice implications include interventions such as psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and bereavement workshops. Healthcare implications for bereaved parents include monitoring physical and mental health as well as screening for possible health-related complications. Policy development recommendations include advocacy for bereavement programs and the creation of community support that validates the bereaved parents experience, increased access to counseling, therapy focused on developing PTG, and training healthcare workers in how to provide bereavement support.

Year of Submission

2025

Department

Department of Social Work

First Advisor

Matthew Vasquez

Date Original

2025

Object Description

1 PDF file (30 pages)

Language

en

File Format

application/pdf

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