Mourning response and intervention in stillbirth: An alternative genetic counseling approach

Abstract

Stillbirth is a frequently occurring tragedy that causes intense problems for parents experiencing it. A review of the literature suggests that the grief response of parents to stillbirth or neonatal death may present more problems than do other types of bereavement. An assessment of these problems suggests that a successful plan for management requires intervention as soon as possible after the death occurs. A protocol for such intervention is presented. It is suggested that such intervention is the proper domain of genetic counselors and represents an expanded approach to genetic counseling, particularly in the light of the recent movement toward a more psychologically oriented paradigm of genetic counseling.

Notes

Current address for reprint requests: Department of Psychology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106 a small part in the overall counseling process.