Which factor may complicate grief, as identified by Therese Rando?

Perceived lack of social support is recognized as a significant factor that can complicate the grieving process. When individuals feel isolated or believe they do not have adequate emotional or practical support from friends, family, or community, their grief can become more pronounced and difficult to manage. Support systems play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate their emotions and experiences following a loss. Without this support, individuals may feel overwhelmed by their feelings of sorrow, loneliness, or anxiety, making it harder for them to cope with their grief effectively.

In contrast, while the death of an elderly relative may induce grief, it commonly follows a life course where expectations about death and age might influence the grieving process less intensely. Previous counseling sessions might provide coping strategies, and positive memories of the deceased can often lead to a more adaptive grieving process rather than complicating it. Thus, the absence of perceived social support stands out as a complicating factor in the context of grief.