Discuss at least two specific issues that groups can address for members who have experienced a loss of a spouse or partner

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

In addition to providing a place for catharsis and for normalizing and dealing with the feelings associated with the loss, groups can address the following specific issues:
a . Loneliness and aloneness. After the death of a partner, the mourner loses the
daily intimacies of having someone special with whom to share significant events and the sense of being the most important person in someone else’s life (Walter, 2003). The struggle with loneliness includes a shift in identity from “we” to “I” (p. 14) and taking responsibility for oneself. Even though the intensity of a relationship with the deceased usually diminishes over time, the relationship does not disappear entirely. Facing the reality of being single rather than part of a couple is also a difficult transition, as is the realization that part of the mourner’s “history” died with the partner (Doka, 2016).

b. Sense of deprivation. The sense of deprivation following the death of a
partner is particularly acute. Widowers and widows may feel deprived
financially, socially, sexually, physically, and emotionally, in any
combination. Redefining one’s roles becomes a major task that is frequently
painful, overwhelming, and frustrating.

c. Freedom and growth. Despite the negative impact of loss, mourners find an
awareness of freedom and the potential for change. Losses are linked to gains; loss can result in “creative transformations”. Helping group members recognize the strength that comes from facing and surviving loss and coping effectively with adversity is an important step in recovery. Encouraging participants to look at the potentials of independence and freedom is also essential. Frequently, participants come to appreciate the freedom of not having to adhere to a schedule or do things to please a partner. Creating and choosing new and different ways to meet one’s needs results in greater awareness of who one is and what one enjoys, resulting in a positive change in self-esteem.

d. Identity and change. A spouse often represented the other’s main source of
identity (Becvar, 2001), so following his or her death, the survivor may engage in major introspection and struggle with his or her identity. In addition, the survivor often has to learn new behaviors that result in personal change—learning to cook and care for a house, handling repairs and financial responsibilities, and making decisions alone (Walter, 2003). A major lifestyle change, such as relocating or starting a job, also may accompany loss. Even though these changes can be positive, stress and readjustment are to be expected. The occasion of death can be used as a turning point in one’s life (Harvey, 2000).

e. New relationships. Forming a new relationship may signify readiness to put
aside the past and move ahead, but this change is often difficult (Becvar, 2001). Widows and widowers often feel as if they would betray their marriage or diminish their love for the deceased mate if they were to enter into a new relationship. Many widows and widowers consider their spouse as irreplaceable and think they would be betraying their ties with the deceased partner if they were to become involved with someone else (Becvar, 2001).