The impact of sibling death on adolescent psychosocial development and psychological wellbeing

Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to explore the experience of adolescent sibling bereavement and its impact on adolescent development and psychological wellbeing in fifteen individuals (10 females and 5 males) who experienced the loss of a sibling when aged between 14 and 25 years. Analysis of data revealed themes such as: traumatic loss; disenfranchised grief; impact on identity development and developmental milestones; the family’s response to loss; and loss as a crisis and growth. The results of this study will assist the identification of supporting factors and resources for professionals, families and friends supporting sibling bereaved adolescents.