Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Social Work

Advisor

Tracy L. Jackson

Abstract

AbstractThe loss of a loved one to death is difficult. However, the loss to suicide entails increased pain and anguish due to the stigma attached to suicide. Sibling loss to suicide is a global concern as individuals can experience complicated grief reactions, post-traumatic stress disorder, and suicidal ideations. These health concerns can negatively impact the individuals’ health and general well-being in the absence of healthy coping mechanisms. The purpose of this descriptive phenomenological study was to explore the lived experiences of Saint Lucians of African descent. The participants were 20 to 60 years old and had lost a sibling to suicide. The researcher applied a phenomenological inquiry approach to this qualitative study using the Lazarus and Folkman transactional theory of stress and coping. The primary research question for this study was how Saint Lucians of African descent cope after losing a sibling to suicide. Through purposive sampling, 10 individuals who resided in the Northeastern part of the island and experienced sibling loss 2 years or more provided a detailed account of their lived experience. The researcher obtained the data through a semistructured in-depth telephone interview. The researcher utilized the seven van Kaam method to analyze the data, create codes, and capture the emerging themes. The research pointed to the overwhelming and life-changing impact of bereaved siblings. This study fills the existing literature gap and promotes positive social change by enhancing service delivery and developing programs to heighten awareness of suicide and coping mechanisms.

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