Date of Award

Spring 5-16-1996

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Social Work (MSW)

Department

Social Work

Abstract

This exploratory study examined the perceived stress and conflict that resulted in the marriages of 32 individuals who experienced perinatal loss and chose to participate in this study. The research sought to better understand the stress couples perceive in their marriages in relation to the level of attachment to the fetus following a perinatal loss. This study also focused on the social support received from inside and outside the marriage following a loss, and how the support influenced the marital stress experienced. Two copies of the self-administered questionnaires were sent to each couple who volunteered to participate. The findings indicated that a perceived increase in stress and conflict occurred among approximately half of the participants. Conflict arose in their relationships while dealing with their own grief, as well as their spouse's and the incongruencies in grieving. The factors that lead to stress and conflict during this time are discussed. Implications of the findings and implications for future research on perinatal loss are presented.

Identifier

SC 11.MSW.1996.Alexande.KK

Download

Included in

Social Work Commons

Share

COinS