An Epidemiological and Sociological Study of Unexpected Death in Infancy in Nine Areas of Southern England

There has been no large scale study of the effects of bereavement on parents who have experienced an unexpected infant death (cot death). Three hundred and eight such families were studied in nine area health authorities in Great Britain. Each family was visited by two suitably qualified members of the Community Health Services to assess the effect of the bereavement on the family and to identify their sources of support. Results of this study indicate the profoundly disruptive effect of the tragedy on the majority of these families. It has highlighted the importance of skilled interviewing to help parents verbalize their fears and assuage guilt feelings. Guidance and training in counselling is recommended for all health care professionals likely to have contact with such families.