Traumatic Bereavement and Terror: The Psychosocial Impact on Parents and Siblings 1.5 Years After the July 2011 Terror Killings in Norway

Abstract

On July 22, 2011, 69 people attending a political youth camp in Norway were killed in a terror attack. Findings concerning the psychosocial impact on bereaved parents (n = 67) and siblings (n = 36) showed a high prevalence of complicated grief (82% vs. 75%), posttraumatic stress reactions (63% vs. 72%), and general psychological distress (88% vs. 75%) 1.5 years after the killings. There were significant gender differences, and the loss had a substantial negative impact on parents’ and siblings’ work and school situations. Potential contributing factors are discussed in light of the magnitude of the event and the chronic stress following the terror attack.