When a Grandchild Dies: What To Do, What To Say, How To Cope.

This paper discusses the findings from several interviews conducted with grandparents to ascertain the process of grief they experienced with the death of their grandchild. Typically, a grandparent's grief focuses on the dual loss aspect. In addition to the loss of a younger family member, grandparents must console their own child, the bereaved parent. The role they take with their own child is confusing and assumptions cannot be made as to what they should expect from each other. Other issues may arise because of the differences in the culture, personal beliefs, and religion of their child and spouse. Grandparents found that jumping in to solve problems may not be the best response. They may also experience some physical aspects of grief such as chest pain and shortness of breath. Confusion may set into as to whether these are symptoms represent more serious conditions. Responding to the stress with alcohol or drugs may only add to their confusion and grief. Grandparents need support and care in their time of grief. Research in this area would help counselors understand and respond to the dynamics of grandparents' grief. A lists of Web sites and an address of a support group is included. (Author/JDM)