A perda inesperada de um filho

: singularidades do processo diádico

Abstract

The main goal of this study is to understand the underlying singularities of the maternal grieving process, in the context of unexpected loss, thus focusing on the individual and dyadic dimension of mothers who have gone through this experience. In the present work, considering the sensitivity and complexity of the theme, a qualitative methodology was adopted, allowing the deepening of the meanings and experiences of the participants. Therefore, semi-structured interviews were carried out with three mothers who unexpectedly lost a child. The qualitative analysis of the data was guided by the principles of Grounded Theory. The maternal grieving process, unexpectedly, is characterized by negative emotional responses that extend over time and may even go beyond the period considered adaptive in the face of a grieving process. Through the testimonies of these mothers, we were able to understand the impact and suffering that this loss had on their lives. Bearing in mind that these mothers are in a marital relationship, being in mourning is not only an intrapersonal process, but also an interpersonal one. The understanding of these singularities contributes to the deepening of knowledge about the process of maternal mourning in the context of unexpected loss, which can generate changes in professional practices in approaching this phenomenon.

Date of Award	11 Jul 2022
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Elisa Veiga (Supervisor)