ABSTRACT
This chapter reports the results of a survey of 70 bereaved spouses in Hong Kong, which aims to identify the stressors commonly faced, the levels of perceived stress, the types of social support received, their quality of life and the types of service most needed. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. Stressors commonly faced by the respondents were: dual parenting roles, the sense of an incomplete family, decision making without support, upsetting situations, loneliness and financial difficulties. Six respondents (8.6 per cent) felt very or quite stressed in bereavement. Almost half of the respondents perceived quite strong overall support from their families, friends and helping professionals. The respondents' overall quality of life was moderately high. Counselling service and financial aid remained a higher priority of the respondents' service need in different periods of bereavement. The results suggest that different packages of bereavement services should be developed to meet the needs of these clients. The fact that younger bereaved spouses experienced the most distress also has implications for counselling and support for their young children and adolescents.
