Early Parental loss can shake children’s emotional foundation — Rev. Samuel Manful

The death of a parent at an early age can shake a child’s emotional foundation, leaving them vulnerable, withdrawn or aggressive, Rev. Samuel Manful has observed.

He made the observation while discussing the impact of early parental loss at home, school and church on Nyansapo Fie, Plan B FM’s family, relationship and lifestyle programme, hosted by Akosua Gyamfua.

Rev. Manful compared parents to the foundation of a building, explaining that their loss can shatter a child’s sense of stability and security. He noted that children respond to grief differently, with some becoming aggressive, others struggling to trust people, and some withdrawing into silence because the emotional wound remains.

He further explained that grieving children may interpret correction as rejection, making it important for parents, teachers and caregivers to understand what they are going through. He urged adults to exercise patience and compassion rather than misinterpret changes in a child’s behaviour.

In the role of the church, Rev. Manful emphasized the importance of prayer and spiritual guidance in helping children cope with their loss. He encouraged church leaders to pray with affected children and reassure them that losing a parent does not take away their identity or worth.

By: Lydia Owusu