Good Practices for Assisting Families and Next of kin in Cases of Disappearance of Persons. The Importance of the Psychology Professional Specialized in Disappearances

Abstract

Each year, an average of 23,000 missing persons reports are filed in Spain. Although most of them are resolved in the first few days, a significant number of people remain in the databases for years. The impact of a disappearance at all levels is not limited to the missing person's immediate environment but extends to different groups-professionals, community, and society-with a particular impact on family members and next of kin. Good practices in the assistance provided to the latter are crucial due to the associated benefits. The role of the psychology professional, specialized in disappearances, is essential in the areas of prevention, intervention, and postvention.