Examining the Marital Relationship After the Death of a Child

Abstract

This paper explores the parental grief process for married couples who have lost a child and the relationship challenges to cope with the loss. The death of a child is a shared experience unique to each couple that can result in the couple moving closer to each other; however, marital problems often develop with the loss of a child. The circumstances surrounding the death are a critical factor in the long-term outcome of parental grief and the strength of the marriage relationship. Effective dyadic coping skills are highlighted for understanding how couples cope with shared grief. I will examine parental loss and marital satisfaction through the lens of Attachment Theory and the Trauma Model. Since grief and loss are universal and a shared experience, many counselors will encounter grief issues in counseling sessions. Yet, grief training is not required in most counselor education programs. With training and experience, counselors can feel more comfortable and knowledgeable in working with grieving clients.