A phenomenological study of family needs following the suicide of a teenager

Death Stud. 2012 Feb;36(2):118-33. doi: 10.1080/07481187.2011.553341.

Abstract

The objective of this phenomenological study was to develop an understanding of family needs following the suicide of a teenager. Six parent units living in the Midwest who lost a teenager to suicide were interviewed. Participants indicated several key themes that describe a parent's needs following the suicide of a teenager. These needs were organized into 6 main categories: (a) support by listening and responding, (b) support from another suicide survivor, (c) support in finding direction, (d) support when viewing the deceased teen, (e) support in remembering the teen, and (f) support in parents giving back to the community.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Adolescent
  • Bereavement*
  • Family / psychology*
  • Female
  • Grief*
  • Health Services Needs and Demand*
  • Humans
  • Interview, Psychological
  • Male
  • Midwestern United States
  • Parents / psychology*
  • Psychology, Adolescent*
  • Referral and Consultation
  • Social Support
  • Suicide / psychology*
  • Survivors / psychology