Year: 2013
Type: dissertation
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: An online survey investigated variables that are related to grief, guilt and loneliness following companion animal loss. Variables of interest were: relationship, species, time since death, type of death, attachment, social support, and demographic variables. Female and male participants over eighteen (n = 85) who had lost a companion animal within the last six months completed the survey. Individuals who classified their pets as good companions reported significantly less grief relative to those who considered their pets to be their children (p < 0.001) and best friends (p = 0.001). Those who labeled their animal as “my child” had significantly higher attachment scores when compared to those who labeled their pet as “a good companion” (p = 0.012). Older age was predictive of significantly lower grief, situational guilt, and loneliness. High grief participants considered their pets to be their children and reported the highest state guilt, loneliness and attachment scores.
Source: TSpace (University of Toronto)
Author: Dawn M. Cowling
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
Funder: Strong
OpenAlex ID: W2663911294