Positive Outcomes of Adolescents' Experience with Grief

This study explored positive outcomes of adolescents'experiences of grief Ninety-three late adolescents (mean age of 19.4 years) responded to the question: "What positive outcomes, if any, do you feel were the result of your grief experience(s)? Check all that apply. " The most frequent responses were (a) have deeper appreciation of life (74%o), (b) show greater caring for loved ones (67%o), (c) strengthened emotional bonds with others (56%), and (d) developed emotional strength (53%o). Only 4 of the 93 subjects responded "none " (1 subject) or left all of the choices blank (3 subjects). There were no significant differences found related to response by sex or ethnicity; however, individuals with an internal locus of control as compared to an external locus of control did respond more often that they had better communication skills as a result of their grief experience. Findings are discussed as they relate to grief education and suggestions for future research.