Sorgtest

Sorgtest is a term used in psychology and related fields to denote a family of assessment instruments designed to measure grief reactions following bereavement or other significant losses. The name combines "sorg," a word for sorrow or care in Scandinavian languages, with "test," reflecting its function as a standardized evaluation tool. Sorgtest instruments are used in clinical settings as well as research to quantify the intensity and trajectory of grief, support planning, and evaluation of interventions.

Origin and scope: The term arose in Scandinavian clinical literature and has since been adopted in international research through cross-cultural studies of mourning. While multiple independent versions exist, they share a common aim: to map the emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and social aspects of grief and to distinguish typical bereavement from maladaptive patterns.

Structure and domains: Sorgtest instruments typically include self-report items and, in some cases, clinician ratings. Common domains include emotional symptoms (intense sadness, longing, numbness), cognitive processes (rumination, disbelief), physical manifestations (fatigue, sleep disturbance), behavioral changes (withdrawal, avoidance), and coping strategies (seeking support, avoidance). Some versions assess functional impact on work or daily living and risk factors for complicated grief.

Administration and interpretation: Items are usually rated on Likert-type scales, yielding a total score and subscale scores. Higher scores generally indicate greater grief-related distress. Validity and reliability have been demonstrated in various populations, though psychometric properties vary by version and culture. Clinicians interpret scores in light of timing after loss, cultural norms, and comorbid conditions.

Limitations and considerations: Grief is highly individualized, and cultural context strongly influences symptom expression. Sorgtest should be used as part of a comprehensive assessment rather than a standalone diagnosis tool. Researchers emphasize careful translation, normative data, and awareness of potential overlap with depression or anxiety disorders. See also grief, bereavement, prolonged grief disorder.