The Psychological Effects of Sudden Infant Death on Grandmothers and Grandfathers

Abstract

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) affects perhaps 8,000 to 10,000 families in the United States each year. Earlier research has indicated that this sudden, unexplainable death of an infant greatly affects the parents of the baby. This study examines the psychological and social impact of SIDS on eighty grandmothers and grandfathers. It is clear from both a statistical, quantitative perspective, and from a more laborious content analysis of their qualitative responses to a survey instrument, that SIDS for most grandparents is a “devastating” experience. Common feelings expressed include: disbelief, anger, guilt, anxiety, depression, concern for their bereaved adult children and surviving siblings, exhaustion, and bitterness. Four percent of the grandparents considered suicide in the aftermath of the death. The findings suggest that almost every aspect of their lives are affected.