Protective and risk factors in the grieving process among cancer-bereaved parents: A qualitative study

Abstract

This Norwegian nationwide study explored cancer-bereaved parents’ perceptions of protective and risk factors in their grieving process. A total of 162 parents answered two open-ended questions 2-8 years after their child’s death due to cancer. Qualitative analysis revealed three main themes: (1) memories of the child’s illness and death, (2) going forward in life, and (3) relationships - a resource and a barrier. The results support the perspective of going forward in life and accepting grief as part of life, contrary to the goal of “getting over” or “detaching” from the deceased child. Social support is also crucial for cancer-bereaved parents.