Abigail J. Rolbiecki, PhD, MPH, MSW

THE CHALLENGE
Although family caregiving has been extensively studied over the last decade, little attention has been given to the bereavement experiences of family caregivers. If family caregivers are distressed and have poor social support during active caregiving, they are at greater risk for developing prolonged or complicated grief, post-loss. Caregivers who can make meaning of their caregiving and bereavement experiences are said to fare better than those who cannot.

ABIGAIL ROLBIECKI wants to help family members make meaning of their caregiving and bereavement experiences. Those who are able to build a network of social support during the caregiving process are more likely to function better after their loved one dies. Her background in narrative therapy and storytelling informs most of her work. She is using various storytelling intervention approaches (e.g., digital storytelling, photo-elicitation) to engage caregivers in a meaning-making process. Ultimately she hopes to reduce their distress during caregiving, which can reduce their grief intensity.

Narrative Medicine and Health Innovation Lab