Qualitatively exploring continuing bonds: Navigating spousal bereavement through keeping the deceased alive

Abstract

The experience of spousal bereavement can be life shattering, and the grieving process which comes after is inevitably difficult. Recent psychological research has found that those who are bereaved exhibit deterioration in emotional and physical wellbeing. Yet some bereaved show resilience when positively changing their lives and transforming their difficult experience. The present study explores the phenomenon of continuing bonds in spousal bereavement and its role in the adjustment. A qualitative approach was chosen due to its exploratory nature of personal experiences and 11 stories in form of blogs were analysed by using Thematic Analysis. The findings demonstrate continuing bonds to be comforting and pleasant, however contradictory feelings were also experienced. Thus, the present study proposes that the experience of continuing bonds in bereavement not to be a dichotomous one. This study argues for a perspective of ‘both-and’ rather than ‘either-or’, and that the role of continuing bonds can be twofold; adaptive as well as maladaptive. The findings are discussed in relation to previous research. The implications of the present study suggest professionals carefully examine the authentic experiences of bereaved individuals to consider whether continuing bonds is an appropriate part of intervention, suitable to individuals’ needs, in moving them towards recovery.