Celebrating Scholarship and Creativity Day (2018-)

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Date

5-1-2026

Disciplines

Psychology

Advisor

Majel Baker

Abstract

The sudden or traumatic death of a peer during adolescence or young adulthood is a common yet understudied form of bereavement despite the developmental importance of peer relationships during this life stage. The present study examined the long-term psychological impact of peer loss by investigating prolonged grief symptoms, perceived social support, coping strategies, and posttraumatic growth among adults who experienced the sudden or traumatic death of a peer between the ages of 12 and 25. Participants (N = 31) completed an anonymous online survey consisting of standardized measures of prolonged grief, perceived social support, coping strategies, and posttraumatic growth, along with open-ended questions regarding their grief experiences. Results indicated that 35.5% of participants reported symptom levels suggestive of elevated prolonged grief. Greater prolonged grief symptoms were associated with higher maladaptive coping and lower perceived social support, particularly support from friends and significant others. Adaptive coping was not significantly associated with prolonged grief but was strongly associated with greater posttraumatic growth. Qualitative findings further demonstrated the lasting emotional impact of peer loss, the importance of support from others who shared a connection with the deceased, and experiences of both continued grief and personal growth. These findings suggest that peer bereavement represents a significant developmental experience that may differ from more commonly studied forms of family bereavement. Greater recognition of peer grief may help inform developmentally appropriate grief theories, interventions, and support services for adolescents and young adults following the death of a friend.

Download

Included in

Psychology Commons

Share

COinS