INTRODUCTION:
The loss of a child is an extremely painful and devastating experience and may be the most challenging catastrophe a family can face. This loss often disrupts emotional and social functioning within the family. Factors such as the cause of death, the child’s age, family dynamics, and relationships among remaining family members can influence the grieving process. Despite the severity of child loss, family grief is rarely openly discussed, and research has largely focused on individual experiences rather than the family as a whole. Limited attention has been given to the experiences of mothers, fathers, siblings, and grandparents. In Soweto, Johannesburg, little is known about how families experience and cope with the death of a child. This study aims to explore family experiences following the death of a child in Soweto.

METHODS:
A qualitative research approach was used to explore family members’ views, experiences, attitudes, behaviours, and interactions after the death of a child. This approach enabled an in-depth understanding of bereaved families’ lived experiences within their social and cultural context.

RESULTS:
The findings revealed that families experienced intense emotional pain and significant disruption following the death of a child. The grieving process was shaped by family relationships, communication patterns, and individual coping strategies. Differences were observed in how family members experienced and expressed grief, demonstrating the complex nature of family bereavement.

CONCLUSIONS:
The study emphasizes the need for greater attention to family-wide grief after child loss, particularly in the Soweto context. Understanding diverse family experiences can inform culturally sensitive support strategies and interventions. The findings contribute to existing knowledge and highlight the importance of further research on family bereavement.