Professional Grief Among Psycho-Oncologists in Germany: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Psychology
• Healthcare Professional Well-being

Background:

• Professional grief, the emotional response of healthcare workers to patient deaths, is under-researched, especially in psycho-oncology.
• This study addresses the gap by examining professional grief in German psycho-oncologists.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the emotional impact of professional grief among psycho-oncologists.
• To identify coping strategies employed by these professionals.
• To understand their support needs in managing grief.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional online survey was distributed to psycho-oncologists in Germany.
• Participants completed established grief scales (TRIG-D, PBS-D) and custom questions on emotional responses, coping, and support.
• Inclusion criteria required participants to work in psycho-oncology and have experienced patient deaths.

Main Results:

• 258 psycho-oncologists (91% female, mean age 48) participated, reporting an average of three patient deaths monthly.
• Moderate distress was reported (M=5.02), with low to moderate scores on grief scales.
• Positive effects on sense of purpose were noted, with minimal relationship impact; common coping included acceptance and peer support.

Conclusions:

• This is the first quantitative study on professional grief in German psycho-oncologists, revealing low to moderate levels.
• Patient deaths can be perceived as opportunities for professional growth.
• Further research is needed to identify risk and protective factors for targeted support.