Existential experiences of hope following parental loss during adolescence: a retrospective perception

The last decades have marked a shift in bereavement paradigm from focusing on pathology and disintegration into an integrated model of grief presented through the concept of continuing bonds. Our aim is to examine, using an existential phenomenology approach, the emergence of hope following parental loss at adolescence as experienced retrospectively by subjects. 15 semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with women, aged 38–58, who lost a parent when they were adolescents. Findings include the themes of support, meaningful occupation, faith, spirituality and acknowledging the temporality of existence. Findings are discussed relating to the social (Mitwelt), personal (Eigenwelt), and spiritual (Uberwelt) dimensions of the existential life- world. Implications are suggested.