Fathers' Experience of Social Support After the Death of a Child

Abstract

The aims of this study were to describe fathers' social networks and their experience of social support after the death of a child. The sample consisted of 8 fathers who had lost a child under the age of 3. The data were collected with open-ended questions and interviews. Data analysis used qualitative content analysis. The fathers' social support networks varied over time and between fathers. The support networks included either just the spouse or the spouse and other people. Social relationships broke down and new relationships formed in their place. The fathers experienced social isolation but also deliberately isolated themselves from human relationships. The support the fathers received was felt to be both positive and negative. Peer support was only positive. Support from professionals was reported to be important but was also criticized. In particular better family care, informal support, and systematic support after leaving the hospital were expected.

Differential Impact of Types of Social Support in the Mental Health of Formerly Incarcerated Latino Men

“…Authors have found that while many FILM may be surrounded by others on the street and in social and kinship networks, they often experience a lack of opportunity or comfort to talk openly about issues that affect them most, leaving them to deal with symptoms of anxiety and depression alone (Muñoz-Laboy et al, 2012). The importance of social networks and support for men experiencing depression and in the aftermath of loss is well-documented (Aho, Tarkka, Astedt-Kurki, & Kaunonen, 2009; Watkins, 2012), as are the negative mental health consequences for men whose social bonds have deteriorated (Oliffe, Han, Ogrodniczuk, Phillips, & Roy, 2011). …”

Child mortality: preventing future child deaths and optimizing family support

“…Furthermore, informational support from secondary care professionals was evaluated as insufficient and many parents This contact should be initiated by the professional. In line with the results of other studies, parents indicate that they would appreciate the provision of more support and follow-up appointments or contacts with a professional after the death of their child [14,150].…”

“…Parents value health professionals and others who approach them with empathy, kindness and respect. They also value professionals when they listen and communicate well and offer support before and after the death of a child [14,140,149,150]. According to parents, support should be offered on an individual basis and may vary in intensity depending on the family needs [140].…”

Condições associadas a prejuízo de desempenho em habilidades sociais em uma amostra de conveniência de usuários de crack

“…Esses sintomas são caracterizados por inibição comportamental, que contribui consideravelmente para a deterioração do funcionamento social. Embotamento e retraimento social se expressam no inventário de habilidades sociais contribuindo para a formação de escores inferiores, o que torna este achado, de certa forma, previsível 33,34,35 . O falecimento de filhos é descrito como um evento capaz de gerar queixas emocionais e repercussões de cunho comportamental duradouras.…”