Grief Analysis of Families Who Lost Children After the Disaster in Simangulampe

A Case Study with a Grief Perspective Elizabeth Kubler-Ross

Abstract

Of the many losses that exist, the tough loss has a significant impact on family balance and sometimes causes complicated grief reactions, such as the death of a child. The purpose of this study is to narrate the stages of grief of parents of landslide victims in Simangulampe, Indonesia, in 2023 based on Elisabeth Kubler-Ross's grief stage theory. This study uses a qualitative approach with a case study method. Data collection techniques are carried out using interviews, observation, and documentation. The results of this study are that Mr. Silaban (as father) and Mrs. Sinaga (as mother), at the time of the disaster and one year after the disaster had passed, went through five stages of grief irregularly, not permanently, and did not go through them according to the order of the five stages of grief proposed by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross. The findings of the research are that there are grief rituals carried out by Mr. Silaban and Mrs. Sinaga, such as remembering the most beautiful moments when they were with their two children, which can help them create a connection with their two lost children. Furthermore, there was trauma experienced by Mr. Silaban and Mrs. Sinaga from avoiding the place where the landslide occurred and diverting the conversation from discussing their children. Finally, amid the grief they experienced, God never really let go of them; God cared for them by moving people to provide support and comfort so that Mr. Silaban and Mrs. Sinaga could accept that grief happened in their lives.