Differences in bereavement reactions within couples following death of a child

Differences in distress within couples who have experienced the sudden death of a child were examined. Results from two independent samples (N = 50 couples and N = 60 couples) were compared. The SCL-90-R and the BSI were used to measure global psychological distress and distress in nine symptom dimensions. Paired t tests revealed similar findings in the two samples: Within couples, women had significantly greater global distress than men and significantly greater distress than men in most symptom dimensions. Hostility scores within couples were similar and indicated a high level of hostility. The findings may explain relational problems observed within bereaved couples. Interventions designed to help couples cope with their differences and their hostility may decrease relational problems.