Anticipatory mourning: a critique of the concept

Abstract

This paper undertakes a critical review of two concepts, “Anticipatory Grief”, introduced into the literature by Eric Lindemann in the 1940s, and “Anticipatory Mourning”, recently proposed by Therese Rando in her book Clinical Dimensions of Anticipatory Mourning. The introduction of the term “Anticipatory Mourning” allows us the opportunity to re-examine our ideas about human response to loss through death. Presently, controversy surrounds the theories associated with grief and mourning. Recent research challenges long held assumptions. Beyond directing the attention of the physician or other caregiver to the emotional state of the survivor serious reservations are expressed regarding the theoretical or practical value of either concept.