ABSTRACT

The loss of a loved one is one of the most painful experiences that most of us will ever have to face in our lives. This book recognises that there is no single solution to the problems of bereavement but that an understanding of grief can help the bereaved to realise that they are not alone in their experience.

Long recognised as the most authoritative work of its kind, this new edition has been revised and extended to take into account recent research findings on both sides of the Atlantic. Parkes and Prigerson include additional information about the different circumstances of bereavement including traumatic losses, disasters, and complicated grief, as well as providing details on how social, religious, and cultural influences determine how we grieve.

Bereavement provides guidance on preparing for the loss of a loved one, and coping after they have gone. It also discusses how to identify the minority in whom bereavement may lead to impairment of physical and/or mental health and how to ensure they get the help they need. This classic text will continue to be of value to the bereaved themselves, as well as the professionals and friends who seek to help and understand them.

chapter 1|14 pages

The Cost of Commitment

chapter 2|18 pages

The Broken Heart

chapter 3|15 pages

Trauma

chapter 4|20 pages

Attachment and Loss

chapter 5|22 pages

Continuing Bonds

chapter 6|10 pages

Anger and Guilt

chapter 7|22 pages

Changing the Assumptive World

chapter 8|15 pages

Complications of Grief

chapter 9|15 pages

Determinants of Grief – I

Kinship, gender and age

chapter 10|12 pages

Determinants of Grief – II

Mode of death

chapter 11|17 pages

Determinants of Grief – III

Personal vulnerability

chapter 12|12 pages

Determinants of Grief – IV

Social and cultural influences

chapter 13|27 pages

Helping the Bereaved – I

Bereavement support: History and evaluation

chapter 14|18 pages

Helping the Bereaved – II

Types of help for types of problem

chapter 15|14 pages

Helping the Bereaved – III

Sources of help

chapter 16|15 pages

Reactions to Other Types of Loss

chapter 17|12 pages

Disasters