Disenfranchised Grief
“I am so embarrassed,” a client said recently. “My dog died, and I called into work sick for three days. I know so many people who have had real tragedies in their life, and I can’t get it together to get to work because my dog died. I really feel like something must be wrong with me.”
Losses seem to be rank-ordered in our minds or in the culture by the type of relationship, rather than the depth of attachment. Deaths that are not a primary relative may not be deemed worthy of intense sorrow. Examples can include the death of a pet, an ex-spouse or romantic relationship, a friend or a relative, such as a cousin or an in-law.
This type of loss is referred to as disenfranchised grief.1 In the example mentioned above, this person had a very deep and meaningful attachment to her pet. During several years of turmoil in her life, she found that her dog was a constant support. She was relieved to know there was nothing wrong with her for her deep sadness. If there is meaningful attachment, there will be sorrow, no matter who receives the love that comes from that attachment.
1. Kenneth Doka, ed., Disenfranchised Grief: New Directions, Challenges, and Strategies (Champaign, Il: Research Press, 2002).
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Getting Grief Right
by Dr. Patrick O'Malley
A masterpiece that will touch your heart and soul with healing powers. • A compassionate, wise, and practical guide • A must read for anyone who is grieving the loss of a loved one.
DR. PATRICK O’MALLEY
Grief Therapist
Dr. Patrick O’Malley is a psychotherapist in Fort Worth, Texas, who specializes in grief counseling. For 40 years, he has counseled individuals, couples and families
in his private practice.
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Getting Grief Right
by Dr. Patrick O'Malley
By the time Mary came to see me, six months after losing her daughter to sudden infant death syndrome, she had hired and fired two other therapists. She was trying to get her grief right...
