How Pre-Teens and Early Adolescents Express Grief
- Physical symptoms (headaches, stomachaches, sleeping and eating disorders, hypochondria) Wide mood swings
- Able to verbally expresses emotions
- Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness
- Increase in risk-taking and self-destructive behaviors
- Anger; aggression; fighting; oppositional behavior
- Withdrawal from adults
- Depression; sadness
- Lack of concentration and attention
- Identity confusion; testing limits
Helping the Grieving Pre-Teen and Early Adolescent
- Accept that they will experience mood swings and physical symptoms.
- Encourage them to honestly recognize their painful feelings and find positive outlets in physical and creative activities.
- Listen for the feelings behind their words and actions and respond with empathy.
- Be truthful and factual in explaining the loss.
- Help them develop and maintain their sense of identity.
- Allow preteens to make choices that are not harmful. Encourage safe expressions and experiences of beginning independence.
- Introduction to Grief and Children
- How Preschoolers Express Grief and Ways You Can Help
- How Elementary School-Age Children Express Grief and Ways You Can Help
- How Pre-Teens and Early Adolescents Express Grief and Ways You Can Help