| Abstract: | After death of a spouse, a widow(er) retains a strong multidetermined attachment to the lost person. This theoretical paper explores the cultural, interpersonal, and intrapsychic factors which bolster the tie. After examining obstacles and motivations for remarriage, the paper examines the triadic bonds between the widow(er), first spouse, and second spouse. Illustrations of the perceptual and interactional dynamics of the triad are presented. A clinician who is sensitized to the triad in a remarriage may help the new couple to be aware of and cope with the persistence of the tie with the deceased spouse. |
