The death of a loved one in childhood is one of the most common adversities that an individual may face, with an estimated 6 million children experiencing the death of a parent or sibling before the age of 18 (Childhood Bereavement Estimate Model National Report, 2023). While most bereaved youth are resilient, research shows that, for some, bereavement can adversely affect long-term functioning in multiple life domains.
Traumatic losses or stigmatized deaths, such as suicide, can amplify psychological distress in grieving youth. Military service providers are uniquely positioned to help support children facing suicide-related losses. This webinar describes manifestations of trauma and grief in children, how their intersection can impact learning and behavior, and how to know when a grieving child is in need of therapeutic intervention.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe Multidimensional Grief Theory and Interpersonal-Psychological Theory of Suicide
- Identify the three dimensions of grief
- Understand specific bereavement-related challenges among youth exposed to suicide death
- Recognize the differences between traumatic stress reactions, grief reactions, trauma reminders and loss reminders
