MULTICULTURAL/SPIRITUAL ASPECTS OF DEATH AND DYING,GRIEF AND LOSS RESEARCH PAPER   PURPOSE The purpose of this assignment is to provide the student with knowledge of a topic related to multicultural or spiritual aspects of death and dying, or grief and loss that is different from your own

MULTICULTURAL/SPIRITUAL ASPECTS OF DEATH AND DYING,GRIEF AND LOSS RESEARCH PAPER

PURPOSE

The purpose of this assignment is to provide the student with knowledge of a topic related to multicultural or spiritual aspects of death and dying, or grief and loss that is different from your own.

AREA OF FOCUS- The Mayans

Cultural background strongly influences expressions of grief and loss. As future helping professionals, it is essential to be knowledgeable about cultural factors which may impact a person’s grief process.

FORMAT

Addressing the sample topics (listed below) throughout, write a research paper ranging from a minimum of 5 pages to a maximum of 8 pages, typed, double spaced, and using Times New Roman 12 point font, accompanied by a cover page and reference list. A minimum of 7 professional citations and references about the issue are required. References must be professional journal articles or books and no more than two professional internet resources. The paper must follow APA guidelines.

Spiritual/Cultural Beliefs and Assumptions about Death and Beyond

Examples of what to include in this section:

• The physical and symbolic boundaries between the worlds of the living and the dead.
• Is the dying process a public or private event?
• The degree of social stigma is attached to those dying, dead, or grieving.
• The death socialization of children and their involvement in the funeral ritual.
• The taboo status of the topic of death and grieving.

Spiritual/Cultural Death Practices

Discuss Potential Examples:

• Rituals
• Art, music, literature, drama, etc.
• Body preparation after death
• Viewing of the body
• Funeral

Spiritual/Cultural View of Grief and Counseling

• How is grief experienced? Individually? Family-centered? Privately? As a community?

• How is counseling viewed?
• Do people/families typically seek counseling if needed?
• If counseling is sought, what might be some potential barriers?

Religious/Spiritual/Cultural Community Resources

Discuss Potential Examples:

• Self-help organizations
• Agency resources
• Traditional healers
• Natural support systems
• Churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, etc.