Defining Normal: What Widowed Parents Make of Diagnosing Grief

Abstract

Following a lengthy debate about the possibilities of distinguishing abnormal from normal grief reactions, a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder has been included in the newest edition of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD; WHO, 2018). In this online survey, spousally bereaved individuals (N = 86) with children in the home were asked about what they made of the grief diagnosis. The results varied from individuals being decidedly against diagnosing grief to others embracing a diagnosis as a means to a recognition of bereavement and grief—and possible access to help and support. The time criterion in the ICD diagnosis of PGD, however, met widespread criticism. While the diagnosis of PGD has already been included in the ICD, it remains to be seen whether it will lead to more understanding of bereaved individuals and an improved provision of help and support for adults and children in the future.