Chapter
The Theory of Ambiguous Loss and Its Connection to Racism
25:36 - 35:21 (09:44)
The theory of ambiguous loss, developed by family therapist and psychologist Pauline Boss, is being applied to explain how racism can cause loss and trauma in black families and communities, with its effects still felt in present-day systems of oppression. Boss has received recent inquiries about the theory's application to racism as a form of ambiguous loss.
Clips
Psychologist Pauline Boss discusses ambiguous loss and the difficulties in measuring it, but stresses the importance of exploring how people can still have a good life despite experiencing loss with a lack of closure.
25:36 - 28:09 (02:32)
Summary
Psychologist Pauline Boss discusses ambiguous loss and the difficulties in measuring it, but stresses the importance of exploring how people can still have a good life despite experiencing loss with a lack of closure.
ChapterThe Theory of Ambiguous Loss and Its Connection to Racism
EpisodeThe Sunday Read: ‘What if There’s No Such Thing as Closure?’
PodcastThe Daily
Family scientists are using the work of family therapist and theorist Pauline Boss to explain how racism can cause ambiguous losses in black families, leading to generational trauma still manifesting in oppression today.
28:09 - 32:52 (04:42)
Summary
Family scientists are using the work of family therapist and theorist Pauline Boss to explain how racism can cause ambiguous losses in black families, leading to generational trauma still manifesting in oppression today.
ChapterThe Theory of Ambiguous Loss and Its Connection to Racism
EpisodeThe Sunday Read: ‘What if There’s No Such Thing as Closure?’
PodcastThe Daily
Pauline Boss, who coined the term "ambiguous loss," explains how we can turn toward loss rather than away from it, and what it can teach us about resilience and grief.
32:52 - 35:21 (02:29)
Summary
Pauline Boss, who coined the term "ambiguous loss," explains how we can turn toward loss rather than away from it, and what it can teach us about resilience and grief.