SUDDEN-DEATH AND BEREAVEMENT OUTCOMES - THE IMPACT OF RESOURCES ON GRIEF SYMPTOMATOLOGY AND DETACHMENT

The study of sudden bereavement focuses almost exclusively on its impa ct on psychological well-being. This research broadens our understandi ng of bereavement outcomes by exploring the effect of grief on family detachment following sudden bereavement. Moreover, this study examines the relative contributions of resources in alleviating grief symptoms and reducing detachment. Data are collected from medical examiner rec ords and mail-back surveys from family members of victims of suicide a nd accidental deaths in a large metropolitan area of the United States . A covariance structural equation model allowing for correlated measu rement error is estimated using LISREL VII. The results indicate that the most grief-stricken survivors are more detached from family than t hose who are least grief-stricken. Examination of the direct and indir ect influences of resources on bereavement outcomes reveals that self- esteem is the strongest predictor of grief and that it also plays a de cisive role in mediating the influences of religious participation and exercise on grief. Expressive support exerts direct effects on both g rief and detachment. This research concludes by directing future resea rch to examine more fully the impact of sudden bereavement on marital and family relationships.