Coping processes among bereaved spouses

Death Stud. 2014 Jan-Jun;38(1-5):145-55. doi: 10.1080/07481187.2012.738767. Epub 2013 Aug 22.

Abstract

The authors investigated if an intervention based on the dual process model (vs. traditional bereavement support) enhanced oscillation between loss- (LO) and restoration-oriented (RO) coping of recently bereaved (2-6 months) spouses/partners. Participants were followed over 12 months. The authors found an increased emphasis over time on RO coping, particularly for women and those who were younger; however, no treatment effect was detected. Although patterns in the data are consistent with the model, the authors conclude that it is difficult for interventions to modify LO, RO, and oscillation unless there is sufficient intervention dosage and tailored to those exclusively engaged in one process.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological* / classification
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Bereavement*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Models, Psychological
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Random Allocation
  • Sex Factors
  • Spouses / psychology*
  • Widowhood / psychology*