Among adolescents coping with bereavement, having a lower self-concept is most likely to be associated with which outcome?

• A. Greater emotional difficulties
• B. Better coping
• C. No difference
• D. More social support

Answer: (A)

Lower self-concept means adolescents view themselves negatively, which reduces resilience when facing bereavement. This negative self-view often goes hand in hand with less adaptive coping, more rumination, and difficulties regulating emotions, all of which intensify grief-related distress. As a result, greater emotional difficulties—such as sadness, anxiety, guilt, and withdrawal—are the most likely outcome. The other options rely on stronger self-views or more resources (better coping, no difference, more social support), which are not typically associated with a lower self-concept.