Risk Factors of Prolonged Grief Disorder.

Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) is characterized by extensive yearning, which includes a strong desire, for the deceased that occurs for at least 12 months. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors that contribute to PGD including the type of loss, relationship to the deceased, and coping. The sample included 190 bereaved adults (71 unexpected or violent loss and 119 natural loss) that experienced the loss of a loved one at least 12 months prior to completing the survey used in this study. There were non-significant results for type of loss, the presence of PGD, and coping. Findings showed that dysfunctional coping including self-blame explained the presence of PGD. Closeness to the deceased prior to the loss contributed to the presence of PGD. The findings highlight the risk factors for adults that experience a presence of PGD.