Presenter
Eleanor Gemma, OTS
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
2026
Abstract
Childhood bereavement is experienced by one in twelve children by age eighteen and is associated with a range of somatic, behavioral, cognitive, and emotional symptoms that may impact function (Judi & House, 2024; Stikkelbroek et al., 2016). Bereaved children often show increased internalizing symptoms for more than two years following loss and can demonstrate challenges with self-regulation (Edgar-Bailey & Kress, 2010; Stikkelbroek et al., 2016). Inability to exhibit appropriate behavioral responses to daily demands can indicate dysregulation and impact a child's participation in their everyday environments. While dysregulation has been researched in children exposed to other forms of trauma, it and the resulting sensory needs of bereaved children are largely unexplored. This occupational therapy capstone project used exploratory research to investigate the sensory needs of bereaved children in order to equip professionals to meet the needs of this population. Participant observations, surveys of group facilitators, and the Sensory Processing Measure 2 Home Form were utilized to collect data at a local pediatric bereavement center to explore correlations between bereavement and sensory needs. Research is ongoing and will be completed by April 2026. The presentation will discuss the need for this research, outcomes of the IRB-approved study, and implications for the interdisciplinary support of bereaved children.
Faculty Mentor
Bethany Horne, OTD, MS, OTR/L
Academic Discipline
College of Health & Wellness
Repository Citation
Gemma, Eleanor OTS, "The Sensory Needs of Bereaved Children" (2026). Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium. 320.
https://scholarsarchive.jwu.edu/innov_symposium/320
