CBEM Methodology & Resources
Methodology
The CBEM represents the most comprehensive effort towards quantifying the prevalence of childhood bereavement in the U.S.
Addressing limitations of past estimations, the model extends prior research by establishing a theory-based tool incorporating inputs that are customizable geographically, temporally, and relationally. The model generates retrospective (current) and prospective (projected) estimations due to the death of a parent or sibling. Rather than gathering new data, the model combines reputable, existing, population-level data sources to approximate the magnitude of childhood bereavement.
For a complete review of the CBEM development and methodology, please see the article, Childhood Bereavement: Understanding prevalence and related adversity in the United States, published in the American Journal of Orthopsychiatry.
Visit the CBEM Dashboard to download CBEM reports and view specific report sources.
Sources
- Burns, M., Griese, B., King, S., & Talmi, A. (2020). Childhood Bereavement: Understanding prevalence and related adversity in the United States. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, 90(4), 391-405.
- Burns, M., Landry, L., Mills, D., Carlson, N., Blueford, J. M., & Talmi, A. (2023). COVID-19 pandemic’s disproportionate impact on childhood bereavement for youth of color: Reflections and recommendations. Frontiers in Pediatrics, 11.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics, CDC WONDER Online Database. http://wonder.cdc.gov/
CBEM Report Citations
When referencing 2025 CBEM Report and associated data in your work, please use the following citation:
Judi’s House (2025). CBEM Results derived from CDC Data, 2009-2023. cbem.judishouse.org.
CBEM Technical Appendix
Beginning in 2019, the Judi’s House/JAG Institute team worked with the University of Colorado School of Public Health’s Center for Innovative Design and Analysis to enhance the CBEM model. Current CBEM results reflect these enhancements.
For a summary of model enhancements, please download the CBEM Technical Appendix below.
Additional Resources
CBEM FAQ
What is the CBEM?
The Childhood Bereavement Estimation Model (CBEM) is a tool developed by Judi’s House/JAG Institute, in partnership with the New York Life Foundation, that approximates rates of U.S. children and youth who will experience the death of a parent or sibling by the time they reach adulthood.
The CBEM provides critical data to researchers, practitioners, educators, and policymakers who advocate for the millions of children navigating grief nationwide. This information helps communities evaluate the impact of unaddressed grief, campaign for grief resources, and ultimately, contribute to improved outcomes for grieving families.
What is Judi’s House/JAG Institute?
Judi’s House/JAG Institute is a research-based nonprofit organization in Aurora, Colorado devoted solely to helping grieving children and their families find connection and healing. Our vision is that no child should be alone in grief.
Named in memory of Judith Ann Griese, the JAG Institute integrates the rigor of our Evaluation and Research initiative with the reach of our Training and Education initiative to improve the accessibility and quality of care grieving children and families receive.
We create social change by sharing knowledge with communities around the country. As a recognized center of excellence, we strengthen the childhood bereavement field by developing innovative tools, disseminating research findings, and providing education. In alignment with our direct-service initiative, we are ensuring childhood bereavement is recognized as a critical public priority.
How are CBEM results generated?
The CBEM aggregates population and mortality data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
How do I access historical CBEM data?
The first CBEM reports were released in 2018. Updated reports and accompanying materials are released annually, typically in June. Visit the CBEM Archive to access previous CBEM materials.
How can I stay up to data on CBEM information?
Sign up to receive JAG Insights communications! We send monthly communications about resources, trainings, and important community updates.
I have more questions; who can I contact?
Learn more about the CBEM at judishouse.org/CBEM, visit the CBEM Dashboard, or contact us for more information.
Judi’s House/JAG Institute partnered with the New York Life Foundation to help support grieving children and families by creating the Childhood Bereavement Estimation Model.