Bittersweet: A qualitative exploration of mothers' experiences of raising a single surviving twin

Jordan, A., Smith, P. and Rodham, K. (2018) Bittersweet: A qualitative exploration of mothers' experiences of raising a single surviving twin. Psychology, Health and Medicine, 23 (8). pp. 891-898. ISSN 1354-8506

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Abstract

Loss of a child from a multiple birth pregnancy is not uncommon yet the idiographic experience of parents who have lost a single twin from a multiple birth pregnancy is underexplored. This novel study sought to explore the experiences of mothers bereaved after loss of a twin from a multiple birth pregnancy, focusing on the dual challenges of parenting and grieving. Eighteen mothers at least 12 months post loss were recruited from a private UK based Facebook page dedicated to supporting parents after loss from a multiple birth. Eligible mothers completed an independent qualitative open-ended survey to explore maternal experiences of loss. Data were analysed using Thematic Analysis. Findings represented a sense of duality for participants, with mothers experiencing conflict between roles and identities as well as the nature of their loss. Key themes identified include 'Narrating a story of family and loss', 'Finding a place for the twins within the family' and 'A changing sense of self'. Findings fit with theoretical conceptualisations of bereavement that acknowledge retaining relationships with the deceased. Practically, suggestions for supporting mothers to identify stock answers to often asked questions about family make up were suggested

Publication Type: Articles
Uncontrolled Keywords: Twin loss; bereavement; identity; infant loss; multiple birth; parenting.
Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
Divisions: Academic Areas > Institute of Education, Social and Life Sciences > Psychology
Related URLs:
Depositing User: Karen Rodham
Date Deposited: 12 Nov 2021 14:31
Last Modified: 12 Nov 2021 14:31
URI: https://eprints.chi.ac.uk/id/eprint/6025

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