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Abstract

This dissertation explores the influences of parental bereavement on the social and educational aspects of a child’s life. Statistics of childhood bereavement show how uncommon it is for a child to lose a parent. However, bereavement services and interventions are becoming more pervasive as the knowledge surrounding the topic area is starting to develop further. The first aim identifies the possible changes a child may face after the loss of a parent. The findings indicate that a combination of negative social, emotional and physical impacts can have detrimental effects on a child’s wellbeing. Taking an educational stance, the second aim explores different impacts, both positive and negative, bereavement can have on educational attainment. Following on from the effects of child grief on schooling, aim three reviews the strategies and policies in place to support young people. This aim critically evaluates the interventions that are used in schools, policies schools must follow and legislations, all in regard to the wellbeing and attainment of a child who is bereaved. Within this dissertation, a range of literature including longitudinal studies, theories and models are used to support the presented findings. Overall, the conclusion of this dissertation displays the importance for social support and appropriate interventions in relation to predictable influences of bereavement. Therefore, this emphasises the need for increased support of professionals working with children, in schools and other services, to improve mental health prevention techniques.

Course: Childhood and Youth Studies with Psychology - BA (Hons)

Date Deposited: 2021-02-03

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis13654.html