A CORRELATIONAL STUDY BETWEEN GRIEF AND COPING MECHANISM AMONG ADULTS

Abstract

The dictionary defines grief as keen mental suffering or distress over affliction or loss; sharp sorrow or a painful regret. A very personal and intricate emotion, grief follows any loss; be it the passing of a loved one, the breaking of a relationship, or any big life transition. It is a normal reaction to loss and can cause a variety of feelings, such as uncertainty, guilt, rage, and despair. Individuals employ coping mechanisms, or coping methods and behaviours, to control their sorrow and go through the mourning process. Supporting bereaved persons and encouraging healthy grieving processes need an understanding of the connection between coping techniques and sorrow. The current study aimed at understanding the relationship of grief, with special emphasis on coping mechanisms in adults. Data was acquired from 100 respondents (58 females and 42 males), between the ages of 18 and 30, using The Traumatic Grief Inventory Self-Report Version (TGI-SR) by (Boelen & Smid), and Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced Inventory (Brief-COPE) by (Carver, Scheier, & Weintraub). Studies have indicated that the efficacy of coping strategies in managing bereavement might differ significantly between individuals. Correlation was run using Pearson’s correlation. The study found a significant and positive correlation between grief and coping mechanisms among adults. The findings indicates that as levels of grief increase, so do the strategies individuals use to cope with their grief. The strength of this correlation, at (r=0.343), suggests a moderate relationship between the two variables. These findings underscore the importance of addressing grief in therapeutic interventions, as understanding and effectively managing grief can significantly impact an individual's coping strategies and overall well-being.