“So many forms of loss”: Cumulative grief among formerly incarcerated people

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Published: Aug 7, 2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15763/issn.1936-9298.2024.8.1.58-73

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Olivia Ward, M. S.
The University of Alabama
Susan Dewey, Ph. D.
The University of Alabama

Abstract

Objectives: The review aims to explore nuanced phenomena, compound loss and cumulative grief that previously incarcerated individuals experience because of their incarceration.


Hypothesis: Compound loss and cumulative grief manifest in multiple ways that differ based on the individual and their experiences before, during, and after incarceration.


Methods: The study adopted a secondary research design using transcripts from interviews with individuals on parole that were collected from a previous study conducted by Dr. Susan Dewey and reanalyzed for the present study.


Results: The review presents the findings from the first author’s analysis of multiple transcripts focusing on topics from a previous study relating to life before, during, and after prison. The findings showed three primary forms of compound loss: positive loss – loss of problematic relationships, negative loss, and transformative loss. Participants of the present study experienced one or more forms of loss, resulting in experiencing compound loss. Positive loss encompassed losing a fractious romantic relationship and or substance misuse. Negative loss encompassed losing reputation, time, relationships, trust, and freedom/independence. Transformative loss encompassed improved relationships, improved self-worth and self-awareness, and advocacy for others or self. Cumulative grief and compound loss can have negative impacts on reentry success for many, as they are unable to properly cope with the pile-on effects of loss.

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How to Cite
Ward, O., & Dewey, S. (2024). “So many forms of loss”: Cumulative grief among formerly incarcerated people . Journal of Forensic Social Work, 8(1), 58–73. https://doi.org/10.15763/issn.1936-9298.2024.8.1.58-73
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Vol. 8 No. 1 (2024)
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Articles
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