Resilience among bereaved siblings of homicide and traffic accidents in Japan

Background: Siblings bereaved by homicide or accidents are often referred to as the forgotten bereaved because they face difficulties in accessing adequate support. Globally, research focusing directly on siblings' perspectives remains scarce, and studies specifically addressing siblings' resilience are almost absent in Japan. A deeper understanding of siblings' experiences is required to develop support systems that acknowledge their emotions and strengthen their resilience.Objective: This study aimed to clarify the psychological transformation processes of bereaved siblings in Japan, focusing on interactions between individual and environmental factors of resilience.Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 siblings who had lost their brother or sister to homicide or accidents. The data were analysed using a modified grounded theory approach that emphasizes context and social interaction in qualitative research.Results: The analysis generated six categories. The siblings experienced the process of grieving and adapting simultaneously during their adjustment. They engaged in practical coping strategies while struggling with the latent conflicts in their families and social relationships. Importantly, positive interactions from others, such as friends of the deceased greeting them at the family altar or spending time together as before, helped the siblings to construct continuing bonds and supported their resilience.Conclusion: These findings highlight distinctive features of grief and adaptation among Japanese siblings. By highlighting siblings' perspectives, this study underscores the importance of culturally sensitive community-based support that validates hidden grief and promotes resilience.