We propose an integrative risk factor framework to enhance understanding of individual differences in adjustment to bereavement and to encourage more systematic analysis of factors contributing to bereavement outcome (e.g., examination of interactions between variables and establishing pathways in the adaptation process). The examination of individual differences in adaptation to bereavement is essential for practical (e.g. targeting high risk individuals for intervention) and theoretical (e.g. testing the validity of theoretical claims about sources of differences) purposes. And yet, existing theoretical approaches have not led to systematic empirical examination and empirical studies in the current literature are fraught with shortcomings. Derived from Cognitive Stress Theory [Lazarus, R. S. & Folkman, S. (1984). Stress, appraisal, and coping. New York: Springer] and the stressor-specific Dual Process Model of Coping with Bereavement [Stroebe, M. S., & Schut, H. A. W. (1999). The dual process model of coping with bereavement: Rationale and description. Death Studies, 23, 197-224], the framework incorporates an analysis of stressors, intra/interpersonal risk/protective factors, and appraisal and coping processes that are postulated to impact on outcome. Advantages of using the approach are outlined. Challenges in undertaking such research are addressed.

Although many abilities basic to human performance appear to decrease with age, research has shown that job performance does not generally show comparable declines. Baltes and Baltes (1990) have proposed a model of successful aging involving Selection, Optimization, and Compensation (SOC), that may help explain how individuals maintain important competencies despite age-related losses. In the present study, involving a total of 224 working adults ranging in age from 40 to 69 years, occupational measures of Selection, Optimization, and Compensation through impression management (Compensation-IM) were developed. The three measures were factorially distinct and reliable (Cronbach's alpha > .80). Moderated regression analyses indicated that: (1) the relationship between Selection and self-reported ability/performance maintenance increased with age (p < or = .05); and (2) the relationship between both Optimization and Compensation-IM and goal attainment (i.e., importance-weighted ability/performance maintenance) increased with age (p < or = .05). Results suggest that the SOC model of successful aging may be useful in explaining how older workers can maintain important job competencies. Correlational evidence also suggests, however, that characteristics of the job, workplace, and individual may mediate the initiation and effectiveness of SOC behaviors.

A program of studies (N = 1,404) tested the hypothesis that psychological androgyny (i.e., a balance of masculine and feminine characteristics) permits greater behavioral flexibility and consequently leads to better adjustment. A variety of methods were used to compare androgynous with sex-typed and opposite sex-typed individuals along several attitudinal, personality, and behavioral dimensions. Contrary to expectation a pattern of findings replicated across measures of attitudes toward women's issues, gender identification, neurosis, introversion-extraversion, locus of control, self-esteem, problems with alcohol, creativity, political awareness, confidence in one's own ability, helplessness, and sexual maturity indicated that flexibility and adjustment were generally associated with masculinity rather than androgyny for both males and females. A subsequent experiment further revealed that feminine subjects, independent of gender, would prefer to become more masculine were that possible. These results are interpreted as suggesting an alternative to Bern's theory of androgyny. Additional analyses indicated few differences between the additive and the original definitions of androgyny.

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Understanding of the bereavement experience has broadened and deepened in recent decades. Earlier assumptions have been put to empirical test; new and creative research designs have been introduced; innovative statistical techniques have been applied; and there have been novel attempts at theoretical integration, lively disputes about controversial issues, and significant developments in intervention programming. We have come to understand as well the influence of dramatic societal change and the ways in which events of national and intemational scope have altered the circumstances of bereavement to which people must adapt, affecting how they grieve personally and mourn publicly. Bereavement research continues to reflect the involvement of many clinical and academic disciplines and investigators from many countries and cultures.These developments, then, suggest the timeliness of the present volume. With the turn of the century not long behind us, it is appropriate to take stock, to sort through and attempt an integration of the new knowledge base, and to come to some consensus regarding priorities and directions for future research efforts.Our objective for this volume was to continue to provide an up-to-date, state-of-the-art account of bereavement research, as we have attempted to

In this volume we have provided a comprehensive overview of the state of knowledge on bereavement at the beginning of the twenty-first century. The volume offers a critical, historical analysis of theoretical and empirical discoveries across the decades of the past century, placing current developments in perspective. The adequacy of our methodologies is examined, and ethical dilemmas encountered in conducting research are brought into focus. Detail is provided regarding the diverse vulnerabilities and manifestations following very different types of loss, extending the scope of analysis beyond detriments to mental and physical health. We also move beyond examination of the grieving individual to consideration of group and societal influences and impact. The volume provides a finegrained analysis of how bereaved people go about their grieving and how such ways of coping may affect their adaptation to loss. It critically reviews the intervention needs of bereaved persons, including the physiological impact of intervention, and presents suggestions for theory-guided counseling and therapy programming. Finally, it examines from many points of view the emerging conceptual and practical issues, such as the differenti-74 1

Although still a comparatively young field of research, the scientific study of bereavement has already passed through a number of identifiable generations, each being characterized by attention to a distinct set of important issues, theoretical advancements, and unique implications for society. Systematic shifts in the focus and character of bereavement research