The Phenomenon of Grief: A Psychological Interpretation of the Loss of a Loved One

Abstract

This study is motivated by the phenomenon of parental loss one of the most significant life events which impacts the emotional, cognitive, and behavioral states, as well as the adaptation processes, of young adults. Such loss not only evokes grief but also alters how individuals perceive life, engage in daily activities, and find meaning following the loss. This study aims to describe the emotional experiences, cognitive experiences regarding the meaning of death and loss, changes in behavior and daily activities, and the processes of adaptation and meaning-making among young adults in Ngembung Village, Cerme District, Gresik Regency, following the loss of a parent. A qualitative approach utilizing Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was employed. Five young adults participated in the study, selected via purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation. Data analysis involved repeatedly reading transcripts, making initial notes, developing themes, connecting themes across cases, and interpreting the meaning of the participants' life experiences. The results indicate that the participants' emotional experiences were characterized by varying intensities of sadness, shock, disbelief, longing, loneliness, anger, and a sense of loss. Cognitive experiences revealed processes of denial, acceptance, the search for the meaning of loss, and the interpretation of death as the will of Allah SWT. Parental loss also influenced changes in behavior, social relationships, and life motivation, as well as an increase in religious activities as a form of adjustment. The study concludes that the grieving process for young adults following parental loss is gradual, unique, and dynamic. This process is shaped by personal experiences, social support, and individual spiritual values, ultimately fostering self-acceptance, strengthened religiosity, increased emotional maturity, and the discovery of life's meaning after the loss of a parent.