Loss, stress and readjustment: The structure of coping with bereavement and disability

Zeev Ben-Sira

Social Science & Medicine, 1983, vol. 17, issue 21, 1619-1632

Abstract: On the basis of recent developments in the study of readjustment, a comprehensive formal theoretical framework was suggested, predicting the factors enhancing and impeding readjustment after a traumatic irrevocable loss (bereavement and disability) and empirically supported. Empirical investigation and application of multivariate techniques of data analysis revealed an identical structure of the content universe of readjustment for three groups: was windows, bereaved parents and army veterans, The structure ascertained the hypothesized predominance of individual resources--and particularly those which facilitate affective interaction relationship--as well as of primary groups' emotional support in enhancing readjustment, compared to the limited efficacy of formal rehabilitation agencies. In the realm of instrumental coping assistance, data ascertained the efficacy of 'resource enhancing' support (e.g. vocational training) in advancing readjustment. Data also ascertained that the weight of individual resources and primary group support in facilitating readjustment is greater than the effect of the severity of the disability, and plays a greater role in readjustment than lapse of time since the loss. The significance of the study is in the development and empirical verification of a formal comprehensive and testable framework of readjustment to change following a traumatic loss. Though the universal validity of the framework needs further proof, there seems to be sufficient basis for assuming such validity until empirically verified. It is suggested to view this study as a first step toward a general model of readjustment. The study seems particularly contributing to the body of knowledge in the realm of stress and coping in light of the difficulties in arriving at a valid empirical verification of the stressful life events-->coping-->homeostasis relationship.

Date: 1983
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