Grief is shaped by the social context in which it occurs (Averill, 1968). Two theories that provide a useful perspective in this connection are symbolic interaction theory (e.g., Berger & Kellner, 1964; Cochran & Claspell, 1987; Lofland, 1985; Marris, 1974; Rosenblatt & Wright, 1984) and family systems theory (e.g., Berkowitz, 1977; Krell & Rabkin, 1979; Rosenblatt, 1983, chapter 10). These two theories complement each other, illuminate the complexity and challenges bereaved people face in coming to terms with a loss, and demonstrate why the social context of grief is so important. Symbolic interaction theory emphasizes the social nature of reality and suggests how a significant loss might be viewed as a loss of reality. It also helps us understand how others are important in defining, feeling, and coming to terms with a loss. Family systems theory emphasizes how family rules and patterns shape loss experiences and how a significant loss affects and is played out in a system of family relationships. In this chapter symbolic interaction theory and family systems theory are briefly outlined as they apply to bereavement. Then both theories are used to develop a perspective on social relationships in grieving and support, on social prescriptions for the bereaved, and on the limits of social knowledge of grief. Defining a loss The loss of definitional context From the viewpoint of symbolic interaction theory, part of the social context for understanding, organizing, validating, and defining feeling, action, values, and priorities is removed when a significant person is lost.