The monkey's paw: The role of inheritance in the resolution of grief

Abstract

Despite the common occurrence of the loss of a parent in adulthood, most research has either focused on the child's loss of a parent or parental loss of an adult child. Yet research has reported that the death of a parent is a stressful loss to adults. However, little research explores circumstances that might complicate loss.

This research considers the role of inheritance in the resolution of grief. It was found that inheritance reflects, and perhaps intensifies, existing problems and conflicts between parents and siblings. When these prior issues are not problematic, inheritances leave a legacy that validates the life of the deceased and affirms relationships with survivors. The study also found a “settlement reaction” similar to anniversary reactions, suggesting that legal events influence the cycle of grief.