Funeral attendance, cremation, and young siblings

Abstract

Abstract This study of the funeral attendance of sixty-five children ages four through sixteen showed that most children attended their siblings' final services. Data were gathered during home interviews with the parents. Behavior problems in the first year were measured using a standardized Child Behavior Checklist developed by Achenbach and Edelbrock. Analysis by t-test indicated children who had attended the funeral or memorial services displayed more behavior problems than children who did not attend. In particular, children in the younger age group and females showed more behavior problems related to funeral attendance. The study suggests that funeral practices need to be further investigated for their impact on children.