When grief manifests in children or adolescents, it is observed that, in addition to facing these demands, the loss of a loved one generates a considerable sense of vulnerability to their peer group (Oslé, 2020). This situation is aggravated by the fact that grief makes them feel different. For example, if everyone else has a parent and theirs has passed away, it is normal for them to feel different and less included in the group. However, in accordance with Oslé (2020), the social network plays a very important role in the lives of children and, above all, adolescents.
Social support is considered a protective factor. Protective factors refer to those circumstances and characteristics that enhance individuals' capacities to successfully cope with adverse situations (Oslé, 2020). In accordance with Oslé (2020), the social network is of great utility for emotional management: it provides a safe environment in which minors can vent about novel situations they may be experiencing at home, share personal resources, or simply disconnect from an unpleasant situation.
Isolation as a Response to Grief
Social isolation represents one of the challenges that can arise in both children and adolescents (Díaz, 2017). In younger children, this phenomenon may result from a change in the adult responsible for their socialization, or because their caregiver is now busier or, in some cases, so distressed that they are unable to accompany the younger ones in their social activities. There may also be a need to stay close to the parent for fear of abandonment or experiencing another loss. In the case of adolescents, there may also be a fear of another death occurring. However, it is more common for the adolescent to perceive the other adult as vulnerable, extremely sad, or hurt, and decide to stay close in case they need company or care. According to Díaz (2017), there is often a certain fear that the adult will experience loneliness and adolescents prioritize the caregiver's needs over their own.
Avoiding Isolation in Childhood Grief
How can isolation be prevented in children or adolescents who are experiencing grief? The simplest strategy is to encourage them to leave the house and interact with their friends (Oslé, 2020). It is common for adolescents to disguise their tendency toward isolation with offers to help adults, such as "I'll stay home today and help you with dinner," "let's watch a movie and distract ourselves," "on Saturday, we'll take the opportunity to clean the house," among others. However, although these offers may be tempting, it is generally not necessary for minors to help at home or keep company. It is most advisable that if their friends have a plan, the child should participate. The importance of the peer group has been emphasized: within it, the child tests strategies and roles, practices social skills, experiences pleasant experiences, and finds a protective environment against adverse situations. According to Oslé (2020), he who has a friend, has a treasure, and when in grief, that treasure shines even brighter.
References
Díaz, P. (2017, noviembre 23). Problemas más Comunes Asociados al Duelo Infantil y Juvenil. Fundación Mario Losantos del Campo. https://www.fundacionmlc.org/problemas-asociados-al-duelo-en-ninos-y-adolescentes/
Oslé, D. (2020, febrero 20). El Duelo Infantil: La Importancia de la red Social del Niño Tras una Pérdida. Fundación Mario Losantos del Campo (FMLC). https://www.fundacionmlc.org/el-duelo-infantil-la-importancia-de-la-red-social-del-nino-tras-una-perdida/
