Ambiguous Loss, Continuing Bonds, and Post-Separation Growth in North Korean Defector Women

Many North Korean defectors left their family members behind in North Korea and now live with the ambiguous loss of loved ones. Unresolved ambiguous loss can commonly lead to psychological distress, but it can also result in positive adjustment outcomes. However, research on the mechanisms underlying the relationship between ambiguous loss and post-separation growth among North Korean defectors is insufficient. We examined the relationship between ambiguous loss and post-­separation growth and whether continuing bonds with separated family members can serve as a protective buffer in this relationship among 100 North Korean defector women who left family behind in North Korea. We found that ambiguous loss was negatively associated with post-separation growth, and this association was strengthened when continuing bonds were low. The findings suggest strengthening continuing bonds can mitigate the impact of ambiguous loss. By identifying a mechanism that promotes adjustment among North Korean defector families in the context of family separation, this study suggests future directions for interventions and preventive strategies for this population.