Relational Spirituality and Grief: A Qualitative Analysis of Bereaved Parents

Abstract

Relational spirituality has been proposed as a theoretical model of spirituality. Until now, relational spirituality has not been considered in contemporary grief research. Through deductive qualitative content analysis, this research explores the primary research question, How does individuals’ relational spirituality impact their grief response? Relational spirituality, described in light of current research, and the paradigm of attachment to God are employed to explicate specific relational qualities. Grief is understood in light of Bonanno’s work, which is altering the norms of grief constructs by asserting there are three common responses to loss: chronic grief, recovery, and resilience. Deductive analysis demonstrates secure attachments to God and grief responses characterized by recovery and resilience are related. This analysis also draws attention to how individuals make meaning in light of their relational spirituality.