Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 22, 2025

Experimental Research Examining How People Can Cope with Uncertainty Through Soft Haptic Sensations
Published on: September 16, 2015
Do Coping Strategies Differentially Mediate the Relationship Between Emotional Closeness and Complicated Grief and
Tom Buqo1, Erin F Ward-Ciesielski1,2, Jacqueline K Krychiw1
1Department of Psychology, Hofstra University, Hempstead, New York, United States.
Abstract:
Although complicated grief (CG) following the death of a loved one has traditionally been viewed as avoidance-driven, recent research implicates approach behavior. Researchers have investigated how coping styles predict CG; however, emotional closeness remains unexamined. This study investigated the differential relationship of approach- and avoidance-focused coping on CG and depressive symptoms. Bereaved adults (n = 340) completed questionnaires about their loss, coping styles, CG, and depression. Results suggest that approach-, but not avoidance-, focused coping mediates the relationship of emotional closeness on CG, while emotional closeness of the relationship had no direct impact on depressive symptoms. This suggests closeness of the relationship plays a unique role in CG.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Coping Strategies: Emotion Focused
Bonanno's Theory of Grieving
Resilience
Coping Strategies: Problem Focused
For example, consider a student who struggles to understand their...
Ending Relationships
The Influence of Cognition on Affect
Kubler Ross's Stages of Dying
In denial, individuals reject the reality of their condition, often thinking, "This isn't true; I feel fine," as a way to protect themselves from...

