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Abstract

This dissertation explores the impact of bereavement through the loss of a parent on the social-emotional development and identity of children aged 5-11 with consideration of the Kubler-Ross model of grief. The loss of a parent can be particularly traumatic when a child relies on them as a primary caregiver, especially since children develop strong bonds with them by the age of 5. Although, research commonly explores the effects parental death has in adulthood, school aged children are often overlooked in research. The Kubler-ross model of grief is one example of how bereavement forms a pattern of behaviour, however it is unclear whether this will be the same for children aged 5-11 who have not yet reached optimal development. However, through the theory of Piaget, developmental stages display the capabilities of this age range and how they may perceive death in accordance to Kubler-Ross’ model. Moreover, updated research by Christie Eppler (2018) will give a specific insight into the emotion’s children have four months after the death of a parent. This research adds to the conclusion that childhood grief is complex and widely overlooked by research with specific reference to those within the preoperational stages of Piaget’s development theory.

Course: Childhood and Youth Studies - BA (Hons) - C1989F

Date Deposited: 2021-02-03

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis13666.html