What It’s Like to Lose a Parent at a Young Age: Lived Reality, Developmental Science, and What Helps
Losing a parent during childhood profoundly affects development and daily life, with about 1 in 12 U.S. children facing this loss. Supportive caregiving, clear communication, and school accommodations are crucial for coping. Understanding grief’s complexities, including prolonged grief disorder, can facilitate recovery and integration, emphasizing the importance of community and professional resources.