Attachment to God as a Mediator of the Relationship Between Religious Affiliation and Adjustment to Child Loss

Objectives: The loss of a child is a traumatic life event. While bereavement research has examined the roles of both interpersonal attachment and religiosity in coping with loss, only a handful of studies have addressed the concept of attachment to God (ATG). The current study examined ATG's role as a mediator in the relationship between religious affiliation (RA) and adjustment to child loss. Method: Seventy-seven bereaved parents (68% women; average age, 55 years) were administrated questionnaires referring to RA, ATG, and adjustment to loss (Two-Track Bereavement Questionnaire-TTBQ_70). Results: The hypothesized mediation model was confirmed. Conclusions: The findings highlight the need to examine internal religion-related variables, such as ATG, while addressing religion and loss. From a clinical perspective, the findings may help therapists implement culturally sensitive practice as a part of spiritually informed psychotherapy. Enhancing therapists' familiarity with the client's internal constructs will enable a better evaluation and accommodation of therapy when working with bereaved parents. Clinical Impact Statement Internal religion-related variables, such as Attachment to God, are important while addressing religion in the context of loss. Attachment to God orientations mediate the effects of religious affiliation on the grief process. Therapists should implement culturally sensitive practice as a part of spiritually informed psychotherapy.