Relationship between Attitude Towards Death and Psychological Consequences of Pet Loss among Adults

Abstract

The present study aimed to examine attitudes toward death and the psychological impact of pet loss among individuals aged 18 to 60 years. Although losing a pet can lead to significant emotional distress, it is often overlooked as a legitimate form of grief. The study specifically explored how pet bereavement, attitude toward death, and anxiety (state and trait) influence complicated grief.

A quantitative research design was employed, and data were collected from individuals who had experienced pet loss. Standardized psychological instruments were used to measure pet bereavement, attitude toward death, anxiety, and complicated grief. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple regression, were conducted to examine the relationships among variables.

The findings revealed that complicated grief was significantly associated with pet bereavement and attitude toward death. Individuals with stronger emotional attachment to their pets and more intense or negative beliefs about death were more likely to experience prolonged grief. State anxiety showed a small positive effect, while trait anxiety was not a strong predictor when other variables were considered.

Overall, the study highlights that pet loss can result in meaningful psychological distress and should be recognized as a valid form of grief. The findings emphasize the importance of addressing emotional attachment and death-related beliefs in grief counselling, contributing to a better understanding of complicated grief following pet loss.