Masters Thesis

Finding hope after experiencing devastating loss: a survey to determine the types of meaningful connections that lead to healing

Devastating loss is an emotionally overwhelming phenomenon of experiences. Normal responses of anger, doubt, fear, and grief are outside the survivor’s usual routine and can leave the survivor feeling vulnerable and ashamed, and unprepared for loss appraisal and bereavement. These experiences motivate the survivor to withdraw from social support and normal routines as a mechanism of self-protection, yet it is the connection to others which offers safety and support during recovery. This research explored the impacts of devastating loss on connection, the reasons that connection is critical for healing, and the benefits of connection, before asking the question: What are the most meaningful types of connection that lead to healing after devastating loss? Survey responses from 134 adult respondents in the United States confirmed that connection is meaningful to healing.

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