Cross‐generational coping with interpersonal relationship loss

Losses of significant others impact upon communication patterns from college to old age. Questionnaires and interviews revealed differences across age groups in openness of talking about losses, stress ratings of losses, and how communication was used to cope with losses. Talking with friends proved to be important for coping with loss throughout the lifespan. Two opposing patterns of response to loss also emerged; some people related to others less while other people related more after a loss event. The findings are discussed in terms of self‐engagement, family relations, and self‐disclosure.

Notes

The authors appreciate the contributions of Christopher H. Clarke in the formulation of this study.