The dual process model of coping with bereavement: rationale and description

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Bereavement Studies

Background:

• Traditional "grief work hypothesis" lacks empirical support and fails to capture the dynamic nature of grieving.
• Existing models often overlook cultural variations and interpersonal coping processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a revised model of bereavement coping, the dual process model.
• To address the limitations of previous theories on grief and loss.

Main Methods:

• Introduced the dual process model, differentiating between loss- and restoration-oriented stressors.
• Described oscillation as a dynamic coping mechanism, involving confrontation and avoidance.
• Highlighted the importance of "dosage of grieving" for adaptive coping.

Main Results:

• Adaptive coping involves oscillating between confronting and avoiding loss and restoration stressors.
• The model incorporates the concept of taking respite from stressors as crucial for healthy grieving.
• Empirical research supports the dual process model's conceptualization.

Conclusions:

• The dual process model provides a more comprehensive framework for understanding bereavement.
• This model is relevant for studying complicated grief and interpersonal coping dynamics.
• It emphasizes a dynamic, regulatory approach to managing grief and loss.