There continues to be a debate on the issue of death and how it is defined. But generally, it is defined as the irreversible cessation of circulatory and respiratory function. However, the focus for this writing is not about its definition but on how death is perceived by different age groups particularly from very young children to adolescent group. We all know man has different understanding on things around him with every age group.
Very young children around three to five years old understand and react to the death of a parent or any other close person the same way they understand and react to separation. They think the dead person may come back someday. They may forget about the loss for a while, but soon after they will want to know when the dead person will come back. Four or five year old kids may understand that death is irreversible but they often think that their dead loved one is living somewhere else, in another world.
Young children at the age of six to twelve years old understand the concept of death with the knowledge that the dead person will not return. They need to know the details about the death such as when and how it happened, who was with him or her and where the body is now. These kids should be encouraged to participate in the funerals and in receiving condolences. These rituals are important to help the child adjust to the loss.
Adolescents aging thirteen to sixteen years old understand the far –reaching consequences of death of a parent and in many ways are more vulnerable to loss than young children. They may be forced to assume a premature adult role following a death in the family. It is important, therefore, to allow them the time to feel sad, cry and grieve before they assume family responsibility. Support from the entire family is important at any stage of grieving.