The impact of death on the family system

Abstract

The impact of death on the family system creates a structural void that requires homeostatic adjustments. This paper describes bereavement adjustments in the family system. The author proposes that a family member may be stuck in one of the phases of grieving, which contributes to the homeostatic utilization of one or more of these adjustments. These homeostatic adjustments provide a matrix for abortive grief which may have transgenerational consequences. The author further proposes two stages of grieving in addition to those given by Bowlby (1979, pp. 82–83) and Parkes (1972); that of transformation and actualization. The family system or family‐community system may hinder or help the bereaved family grieve, or make the homeostatic adjustment. Judeo‐Christian values and rituals are described as relevant to this process. Copyright © 1983, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved