Parental bereavement during childhood and the long-term implications on psychological well-being
Authors
Nolan, Jennifer
Issue Date
2018
Degree
BA (Hons) in Psychology
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
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Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore the long-term implications of childhood parental bereavement on perceived social support, resilience, depression, anxiety and life satisfaction. The sample consisted of 88 participants, 28 males and 53 females (missing values: N=7). Divided into groups of parentally bereaved adults (N=33) and a control group of non-bereaved adults (55). Participants completed an online survey comprising of four different questionnaires: The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Support, The Brief Resilience Scale, The Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 Item and The Satisfaction With Life Scale. Independent Sample T-tests found a significant difference in perceived social support levels in bereaved and non-bereaved adults but no significant difference in resilience, depression, anxiety and life satisfaction. Positive correlations were found between depression and resilience and perceived social support and life satisfaction. The results also suggest gender differences in the developmental outcome of the bereaved group. These findings contribute to the understanding of mental health processes in an understudied sample.