Components of grief and the dynamics offamily reactions to the death of a child are discussed in this article. Family counselors are encouraged to be prepared for working with families by understanding these unique dynamics. Marital effects as well as the reaction of other family members, including children and grandparents, are explored. Counseling interventions including the recognition of varied individual grieving needs, the encouragement of communication and support between family members, and the use of more directive counseling strategies when appropriate are discussed.
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