Coping Strategies as Moderators of Bereavement Experience and Psychological disorders in Mothers who have Lost their Child in a Short Time

Abstract

Objective: Losing a child is incredibly distressing for a mother, causing more intense and complicated grief compared to other types of loss. This study aims to examine how coping strategies can help alleviate the emotional burden of losing a child and reduce the risk of developing mental health issues in mothers who have recently experienced this tragedy. Methods and Materials: The current study utilized a descriptive-correlational research approach and a cross-sectional research design, using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The statistical population for this study consisted of mothers who had experienced the loss of a child within a short timeframe (between one to six years) due to various causes. These mothers resided in Tehran, Isfahan, and Mashhad, and data collection occurred between July and November of 2023. A sample of 111 individuals was selected using a convenient method. The research instruments employed included the coping strategies questionnaire (CSQ), Grief Experience Questionnaire (GEQ), and Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL90). The researchers used SPSS version 27 software to conduct descriptive statistics. They analyzed path and standard coefficients using SmartPLS version 4 and Jamovi software version 2.4.14. Findings: According to the findings, the variable of Coping strategies played a significant role as a moderator in the relationship between the guilt variable and Psychoticism (β=-0.354, P<0.001). Similarly, coping strategies also served as a significant moderator for the relationship between Judgment and Psychoticism (β=-0.177, P=0.004). Additionally, coping strategies played a notable role as a moderator for the relationship between Shame and Psychoticism (β=-0.149, P=0.022). Conclusion: According to the results of the study, it is crucial to grasp the Bereavement Experience encountered by individuals and how coping strategies for dealing with it and having a network of support can assist mothers who have lost a loved one.