book cover

Sibling Loss

Joanna H. Fanos

Published by Lawrence Erlbaum Associates
Publication date: December, 1996
ISBN: 0805817786 (paperback)

Synopsis

Sibling bereavement has special features. This book examines how the grief of sibling loss differs from that due to loss of a parent, child, or friend.

Fanos' study of sibling reactions shows that the death of a brother or sister can trigger very strong reactions that approach the intensity of Post Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD). These powerful feelings can persist for years following the death of a sibling. In addition to general feelings of sadness and grief, survivors may experience extreme emotional numbness, lack of motivation, feelings of despair and imminent disaster, nightmares, and lingering resentment from parents.

This content is provided by Growth House, Inc., the Internet's leading resource for end-of-life care. Visit our main web site at www.growthhouse.org.