Grief in Children

Question 1

Birth to 1 year

Answer 1

The infant has no concept of death.
A baby may react to the loss of its mother or caregiver.

Question 2

1-2 years of age

Answer 2

Children in this age group may see death as reversible.
The grief response occurs only in response to the death of a significant person in the child’s life.
The very young child experiencing the loss of a parent or caregiver may scream, withdraw, or lose interest in the environment.

Question 3

2-5 years of age

Answer 3

Like their younger counterparts, children in this age group may see death as reversible.
A child of this age experiences a sense of loss and is concerned about who will care for him or her.
Regression or aggressive behavior may be demonstrated.

Question 4

5-9 years of age

Answer 4

Children of this age begin to see death as permanent.
The child may feel responsible for the death.
Grief may be manifested as difficulty concentrating.

Question 5

Preadolescence through adolescence

Answer 5

The child understands death as permanent.
A child of this age generally experiences a strong emotional reaction.
Regression may occur.