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Homicide bereavement: A family affair
M Regina Asaro1, Paul T Clements
1Old Dominion University School of Nursing, Norfolk, VA, USA.
Journal of Forensic Nursing
|November 1, 2006
Summary
The murder of a family member profoundly impacts survivors, affecting individual grief and family dynamics. This paper examines the complex challenges families confront after such a traumatic loss.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Family Studies
Background:
- Homicide victims' families experience unique and severe trauma.
- Bereavement following murder involves complex grief reactions and family system disruption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the multifaceted issues and challenges faced by families after a loved one's murder.
- To understand the impact of homicide on family stability, development, communication, and roles.
Main Methods:
- This paper is a review and synthesis of existing literature.
- It draws upon psychological and sociological theories of grief and family systems.
Main Results:
- Families experience varied grief timelines and expressions.
- Homicide can destabilize family functioning, altering communication and roles.
Conclusions:
- Families require specialized support to navigate the aftermath of murder.
- Addressing individual and collective grief is crucial for family recovery.
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