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Family dynamics and the grieving process: A systematic review and narrative synthesis
Donna Levin1, Molly Quartermaine1, Andrea Gavshon1
1Curtin School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia.
Death Studies
|June 27, 2026
Summary
Family dynamics significantly impact grief after a death. Understanding communication, roles, and cultural influences within families is key to healthier bereavement adaptation.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Family Studies
Background:
- Grief is often viewed as an individual experience.
- However, family dynamics play a crucial role in shaping grief responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and synthesize existing evidence on how family dynamics influence grief responses.
- To identify key themes and patterns in the literature regarding family's role in bereavement.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines was conducted.
- Searches across four databases (CINAHL, Scopus, PsycINFO, Medline) and gray literature identified 7,806 records.
- Twenty-nine studies reporting original data on post-death grief in multiple family members were included and narratively synthesized.
Main Results:
- Four major themes emerged: communication and cohesion, caregiver influence on child adjustment, roles and reorganization, and cultural/societal influence.
- Evidence synthesis revealed limitations including reliance on self-report, retrospective data, and cross-sectional designs.
- Family dynamics significantly modulate individual and collective grief experiences.
Conclusions:
- Family dynamics are integral to the grief process and adaptation following bereavement.
- Clinical practice, community programs, and policy should consider family dynamics to support healthier grieving.
- Further research using diverse methodologies is needed to deepen understanding.
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