BROAD-SPECTRUM GROUP TREATMENT FOR PARENTS BEREAVED BY THE VIOLENT DEATHS OF THEIR 12-YEAR-OLD TO 28-YEAR-OLD CHILDREN - A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

This study assessed the efficacy of a 10-week broad-spectrum intervent ion offered to bereaved parents about 4 months after the deaths of the ir 12-28-year-old children due to accidents, homicide, or suicide. For three outcomes of distress there was a significant interaction betwee n treatment and baseline values for each outcome for mothers both imme diately posttreatment and 6 months later The intervention appeared to be the most beneficial for mothers most distressed at baseline. Father s showed no immediate benefits of treatment. Further research is neede d to investigate these unexpected results for fathers and to further c haracterize those who benefit from similar programs.