Grieving the Ungrievable: Understanding and Caring for Ambiguous Loss
This article discusses the concept of ambiguous loss, exemplified by families of Missing in Action (MIA) service members. It highlights the emotional challenges faced by these families due to the lack of closure and certainty. The text explores coping mechanisms, including support groups, spiritual beliefs, and six key coping pillars. It emphasizes the importance of finding and returning MIAs for true closure and the role of caregivers and chaplains in assisting families through their grief.
Authors
- Terry W. Eddinger
Publication Details
- Journal
- Military Chaplaincy Review
- Published
- 2026-02-13
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.65589/001c.156285
- Primary Topic
- Grief, Bereavement, and Mental Health
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00