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    Peer-group support for bereaved children: a qualitative interview study

    Metel, M. and Barnes, Jacqueline (2011) Peer-group support for bereaved children: a qualitative interview study. Child and Adolescent Mental Health 16 (4), pp. 201-207. ISSN 1475-357X.

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    Abstract

    Background:  While it has been shown that bereaved children can experience emotional or behavioural problems, the evidence is inconclusive regarding which children would benefit from support and the kind of support to offer. This study aimed to obtain children’s and parents’ views on their experiences following bereavement and the usefulness of a peer-group support programme. Method:  Thirty-nine families who had attended a community-based peer-group bereavement support programme within the previous 4 years were approached. Of the 23 with confirmed contact details, 17 agreed to participate. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 23 children (range 8 to 17 years) and 17 parents. Results:  Children were concerned about isolation from peers and emphasized the value of meeting other children with experiences of bereavement in the group. Parents were concerned about lack of communication within the home about the bereavement, which continued after the group. Most children and parents would have liked more support, either more groups or an ongoing link. Conclusions:  Referral to peer-group support may have the potential to improve bereaved children experiencing feelings of social isolation and help them develop coping strategies. Other family-focused support may also be needed for some children.

    Metadata

    Item Type: Article
    Additional Information: The definitive version is available at www3.interscience.wiley.com
    Keyword(s) / Subject(s): Bereavement, social isolation, support groups, well-being, peers
    School: Birkbeck Faculties and Schools > Faculty of Science > School of Psychological Sciences
    Research Centres and Institutes: Children, Families and Social Issues, Institute for the Study of (Closed)
    Depositing User: Administrator
    Date Deposited: 08 Nov 2012 14:21
    Last Modified: 02 Aug 2023 17:00
    URI: https://eprints.bbk.ac.uk/id/eprint/5622

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