Abstract
M.A.
This study explores the grief experiences of young adult siblings in the aftermath of
murder. This research was motivated, firstly, by the perceived lack of focus on siblings,
often referred to as the ‘disenfranchised grievers’ and, secondly, by the vulnerability of
the young adult population who bear the scars of South Africa’s high levels of crime
and violence. Three young adults were recruited to participate in interviews, in which
they described their lived experience of loss. Data collection and the analysis were
guided by a phenomenological research design resulting in the identification of five
major themes: 1) Shock, disbelief and horror, 2) Intent and rage, 3) Recollecting and
withdrawal, 4) Rupture and fragmentation, and 5) Resilience, healing and growth.
These themes are discussed in relation to the research literature on sibling grief and
homicide bereavement. In the concluding chapter, the key strengths and limitations of
this study are reviewed and the implications of the findings of this research for further
investigations are discussed