Kate has not seen or heard from her mother since Hurricane Katrina hit the Louisiana town where her mother lived. She does not know for sure if her mother is dead or alive. Kate feels her mother's psychological presence even though she is not physically with her. Pauline Boss uses the term _____ to describe what Kate is feeling.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Pauline Boss uses the term "ambiguous loss" to describe the experience of not knowing whether a loved one is alive or dead, or otherwise experiencing a loss that is not clearly defined or resolved. This can lead to feelings of grief, anxiety, and psychological distress, as in the case of Kate and her missing mother. The other answer choices are not appropriate because they do not accurately describe the experience or symptoms that Kate is experiencing.

Kate Has Not Seen or Heard from Her Mother Since