Grief and attachment

J Relig Health. 1988 Jun;27(2):157-65. doi: 10.1007/BF01532073.

Abstract

Loss and grief are universal phenomena with serious potential psychological and physical consequences. Loss results in various reactions that have been identified in a variety of ways. Attachment theory provides a conceptual scheme to understand these processes and consequences. Clergy are in a strategic position to respond to loss, and attachment theory helps inform pastoral intervention. Several program and research issues are posed that emerge from the author's clinical experience.