An interpersonal neurobiological-informed treatment model for childhood traumatic grief

Omega (Westport). 2006;54(4):319-35. doi: 10.2190/b115-5526-0u27-4296.

Abstract

This article expands an earlier model of the tasks of grieving (1990, [1995], [2001]) by building on science based findings derived from research in attachment theory, neuroscience, interpersonal neurobiology, and childhood traumatic grief (CTG). The proposed treatment model is a prescriptive approach that spells out specific tasks to be undertaken by children suffering traumatic grief under the direction of a therapist who is trained in trauma-informed therapy approaches and draws heavily on the empirically derived childhood traumatic grief treatment model developed by Cohen and Mannarino (2004; Cohen, Mannarino, & Deblinger, 2006). This model expands on their work by proposing specific tasks that are informed by attachment theory research and the interpersonal neurobiological research (Schore, 2003a, 2003b; Siegel, 1999). Particular emphasis is placed on developing a coherent and meaningful narrative since this has been found as a crucial factor in recovery from trauma in attachment research (Siegel, 1999; Siegel & Hartzell, 2003).

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Child Behavior / psychology*
  • Child Development
  • Child Welfare
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Grief*
  • Humans
  • Life Change Events
  • Models, Psychological
  • Object Attachment*
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / therapy*