Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 9, 2026

Using a Murine Model of Psychosocial Stress in Pregnancy as a Translationally Relevant Paradigm for Psychiatric Disorders in Mothers and Infants
Published on: June 13, 2021
Bereaved parents' experiences of baby loss stigma: A meta-ethnography
R L Corcoran1,2, Shirley L1, A Clancy3
1Division of Psychology and Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK.
Abstract:
Despite advances in support following baby loss over recent years, the stigma associated with the death of a baby continues to negatively affect bereaved parents worldwide. The present review aimed to systematically explore bereaved parents' experiences of baby loss stigma. Four electronic databases were searched, and additional papers were sought through citation searching. A total of 22 papers were included and three themes were identified taking a meta-ethnographic approach: (1) Bereaved parents are silenced and alone in their grief, (2) Mothers are blamed for their child's death and (3) Parents' identities are questioned and changed. A line of argument synthesis outlined the need to reframe baby loss as a public rather than a personal issue with help needed to break stigma and reduce feelings of social isolation. Implications were made for how professionals and nonprofessionals can help to break the stigma which continues to surround baby loss today.
Related Concept Videos
Bonanno's Theory of Grieving
Resilience
The resilience...
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 emotional distress. Anger...
Stereotype Content Model
Parenting Styles
Authoritarian Parenting
This style is strict and controlling, with little room for open dialogue. Authoritarian parents demand obedience and often enforce rules with minimal warmth. Children raised this way may lack social skills and initiative, usually comparing themselves to others unfavorably.
Authoritative Parenting
This...
Parental Care
Deindividuation
