Pre- and postloss features of adolescent suicide bereavement: A systematic review

Death Stud. 2016;40(4):229-46. doi: 10.1080/07481187.2015.1128497. Epub 2015 Dec 17.

Abstract

Despite increasing clinical and research interest in suicide bereavement the impact of suicide on adolescents is still poorly understood. This systematic review aims to disentangle pre- and postloss features that affect response to grief in this age group. The literature was analyzed after a systematic search and hand-check of retrieved articles. The impact of suicide is affected by (a) preloss features related to personal/family history of mental health, family life, suicidal behavior, and type and emotional closeness of relationship; and (b) postloss issues such as quality of remaining relationships. Future research and bereavement support should consider these broader contexts.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Bereavement*
  • Family Relations
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders / psychology
  • Risk Factors
  • Sex Distribution
  • Social Support
  • Suicide / psychology*