An examination of the relationship between early parental loss and adult interpersonal relationships and self-esteem

The early loss of a parent is a significant life event that affects an individual's interpersonal relationships and self-perception. Within the framework of object relations theory, it is anticipated that early losses may leave lasting impacts on the development of the self and interpersonal relationship schemas. While most studies in the literature on this topic focus on childhood and adolescence, there are a limited number of studies that concentrate on early infancy. This study aims to examine the relationship between interpersonal relationship dimensions and self-esteem in adults who experienced parental loss between the ages of 0 and 3. The research was conducted with 85 individuals aged between 18 and 65 who experienced parental loss between the ages of 0 and 3. The study utilized the Informed Consent Form, Demographic Information Form, Interpersonal Relationship Dimensions Scale, and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. The responses to the scales were analyzed using SPSS 27. The data obtained were analyzed using independent samples t-test, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation analysis. According to the results, a significant positive relationship was found between self-esteem levels and approval dependence; and a significant negative relationship was found between self-esteem levels and trust in others as well as emotional awareness. A significant positive relationship was also observed between the participants' age and their level of self-esteem. Furthermore, a significant relationship was found between the cause of the parent's death and the individual's level of self-esteem. It was determined that the perceived quality of care after the loss had a significant effect on approval dependence. It was found that as age increased, self-esteem also increased, and individuals with three or more siblings had higher levels of trust in others.