ABSTRACT
In this chapter we examine the ways friends support the chief mourner and family members. Historically friends have been warned that their grief must not compete with, overshadow, or complicate family grief (Sklar, 1991-92). The expectation is that friends will support-rather than receive support-motivates many friends to ignore their own grief and the needs of others in the friendorbit in order to concentrate on the needs of the family. After many deaths, friends may decide to take a break from active grieving and make themselves unavailable to offer support. Support can be challenged when lifestyle issues impact relationships.
