ABSTRACT
This book highlights the need to further develop and refine existing models of therapy for families bereaved of their child’s death. In Chapter 1, the author emphasizes developing or augmenting those therapies and theoretical conceptualizations of grief that are multifaceted and process-oriented. This chapter introduces one of the main themes of the book, which is that family members become catalysts of positive change and transformation. To do this, they must not only recognize unhealthy or maladaptive exchanges between members, but discover different strategies and communicative practices for recognizing and easing one another’s grief. Last, the author introduces six basic variables that, in his clinical opinion, guide the therapeutic process. He asserts that appropriately addressing each will decrease the risk of individual, couple, or family dysfunction. A familiarity with each of these variables and how they relate to one another is essential for understanding and connecting with grief-stricken families. The author recommends that clinicians and other helping professionals consider these variables when formulating, planning, and providing treatment for the bereaved.
