17079R3m-3 An Exploratory Study of Grief Reactions, Coping, and Post-Traumatic Growth in Muslim Adults Who Lost a Parent During Adolescence

Abstract

The loss of a parent during adolescence can have a profound and lasting impact, particularly when it intersects with cultural, religious, and developmental factors. This qualitative study explored the reaction to loss, coping strategies, and post-traumatic growth among six participants—Muslim adults who experienced parental loss during adolescence. Using a phenomenological approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted to capture their lived experiences. Thematic analysis revealed four major categories: reaction to loss, coping strategies, post-traumatic growth, and the continuing grief process. Initial responses included shock, emotional withdrawal, and delayed grief that surfaced later in adulthood. Coping strategies varied across emotion-focused, maladaptive, religious, and problem-focused responses, shaped by socio-cultural and spiritual influences. Emotion-focused coping, particularly thought suppression, helped participants maintain daily functioning but sometimes hindered emotional processing. Religious practices provided meaning and stability, although some participants experienced religiously framed guilt. Despite these challenges, many reported growths in areas such as emotional strength, spirituality, and life purpose. The findings also highlighted that grief was not fully resolved over time. Instead, it resurfaced during major life events, reflecting the non-linear and enduring nature of loss. This study underscores the need for culturally sensitive grief interventions that address both the immediate emotional needs and the long-term psychological journeys of bereaved Muslim youth. It also emphasizes the significance of religious meaning-making and familial dynamics in shaping grief trajectories and post-traumatic growth. Future research should examine these themes in broader cultural contexts to inform more inclusive models of bereavement support.