Culturally Embedded, Gendered, and Iterative Grief Among Adult Sons Following Paternal Loss: A Qualitative Study

The death of a father is a major transition for adult sons, particularly in cultures emphasizing filial duty and masculine norms. This qualitative study explored how 24 bereaved sons in Chinese society experienced paternal loss using in-depth interviews and reflexive thematic analysis. Findings revealed a non-linear, iterative grieving process: sons assumed family responsibilities, maintained relational bonds, managed paradoxical emotions, reflected on father–son relationships, and engaged in recursive coping. Grief was culturally mediated, relational, and identity-transforming, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive support for bereaved adult sons.