ABSTRACT
The child’s social environment - the types of comfort, clarification and support provided the child - influence how well he or she is able to cope with the loss. Feelings of guilt play a significant role in a child’s reaction to the loss of a parent or sibling. Death and dying are subjects which are repressed and tabooed by society, especially when it comes to confronting children and young people with them. Another important factor in the grieving process is the role played by the deceased in the child’s life. A child is severely affected when a sudden or violent death occurs, particularly if the child is lied to or the situation is hidden from the child. When working with children and adolescents, it is very important to also work with their environment; it is vital, however, that one proceed with utmost caution.
