Date of Submission

2020

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

Department Chair

Stephanie Felgoise, PhD, ABPP

First Advisor

Stephanie Felgoise, PhD, ABPP

Second Advisor

Susan Panichelli-Mindel, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

Kyle Kanter, Ph.D.

Abstract

The purpose of the current study was to examine the possible effects of early parental loss to death during childhood between the ages of 8 and 13 years old on adults and intimate relationships.  Intimate relationships are defined as relationships with a parent, sibling, relative, partner, or friend.  By using a qualitative approach, this study was designed to gather information on each participant's unique understanding of how early parental loss to death may have impacted his or her ability to form and maintain relationships with others throughout adulthood.  Moreover, the researcher explored changes in mood following the death of a parent throughout adulthood.  The findings indicated that losing a parent to death during early childhood years impacts the ability to form and maintain intimate relationships, affects mood, and leads to long-term emotional distress.

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