PEDIATRICS Vol. 72 No. 5 November 1983, pp. 645-651
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A Death in the Family: The Pediatrician's Role

David A. Brent MD1

1 From the Department of Child Psychiatry, Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, Pittsburgh

The loss of a parent or sibling can have a profound effect on the psychosocial development of the surviving child. The pediatrician, by virtue of his or her longitudinal involvement with children, is in a unique position to provide anticipatory guidance for the family in which such a loss has taken place. This article reviews children's cognitive understanding of death, the distinction between normal and pathologic grief, and the impact of the loss of a parent or sibling on the course of family relations and the development of the children involved. Some of the common problems that may be manifest in children subsequent to such a loss, together with appropriate interventions, are outlined. Most situations can be best handled by the pediatrician, but criteria for seeking psychiatric consultation are provided.

Key Words: death • grief • mourning • parent loss • sibling loss

Accepted on January 20, 1983




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