Early parental loss can affect adult relationships — Rev. Benjamin Boateng

The death of a parent during childhood can affect a person’s ability to form healthy relationships later in life, Rev. Benjamin Boateng has said.

Speaking on Nyansapo Fie, Plan B FM’s family, relationship and lifestyle programme hosted by Akosua Gyamfua. The guest, Rev. Boateng explained that children develop a strong emotional bond with their parents, which gives them a sense of safety and security. He noted that the sudden loss of a parent can disrupt this bond, making it difficult for some children to form strong emotional connections as they grow older.

According to him, such individuals may develop a fear of attachment because they worry that people they love could also leave them unexpectedly. He said this fear can make it difficult for them to trust their partners, maintain friendships and build stable marriages.

Rev. Boateng further noted that some people who experience early parental loss may struggle to leave unhealthy relationships, including abusive ones, because they fear being alone. He added that others may withdraw from social interactions or become reluctant to marry, preferring relationships without commitment.

He emphasised the importance of understanding these emotional struggles and helping affected individuals build healthy, secure relationships.

By: Lydia Owusu