Abstract Research on death-related attitudes needs complex assessment instruments for multicultural contexts. The French version of the Multidimensional Orientation Toward Dying and Death Inventory was factor analytically constructed with data from Europe and Canada (N = 370). The 24-item instrument with five and three scales in the fear and acceptance domain, respectively, shows favorable psychometric

Abstract Age influences the experience of widowhood and the likelihood of adverse outcomes. This review synthesizes 13 qualitative studies that explored adjustment following the death of a partner at a younger age, within a Western-cultural context. Thematic synthesis identified six analytical themes: unique challenges; identity changes; levels of distress; coping; support; and adapting following the

Published in Death Studies (Ahead of Print, 2022)

Abstract Cannabis use has been indicated as a risk factor for suicide in veterans. This study of Gulf War veterans tested the relationship between self-report past year cannabis use and (a) past year suicidal ideation and (b) risk for suicidal behavior. Data were from a national sample (N = 1126) of Gulf War veterans. Logistic regression models indicated cannabis use was associated with past year suicidal

Abstract This paper explores the experience of posttraumatic growth in families who have lost a family member to a drug-related death. Seven family units (17 participants) were interviewed, and interviews were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Analyses revealed themes that reflected positive adaptation and growth, including (a) reframing the loss, (b) open dialogue and social support, and

Abstract This study explores the recovery processes of persons who had attempted suicide. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight persons who had attempted suicide and the data were analyzed by means of systematic text condensation. The participants described lifesaving turning points, which were connected to meaningful relationships, taking control over one’s own life, and establishing

Abstract Gatekeeper training for university students is a promising suicide prevention approach. However, there is a lack of comparative studies with control groups and the effectiveness of online gatekeeper training programs is unclear. We investigated the effectiveness of brief online gatekeeper training for Japanese university students. Participants were divided into two groups (training or control)

Abstract We aimed to evaluate whether an ultra-short version of the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI) has adequate psychometric properties, with a Colombian sample (N = 931) vulnerable to SaRS-CoV-2 infection. Results indicated that adequate indicators of goodness-of-fit, convergent validity, internal consistency, and factorial invariance. Therefore, this instrument is recommended for the screening

Abstract The purpose of this literature review was to describe older individuals’ perceptions of a good death. A systematic data search of CINAHL, Medline, PsycINFO, ASSIA, and Medic databases from 2010 to 2020, supplemented with a manual search, resulted in 16 studies that met the inclusion criteria. Study quality was assessed using the JBI critical appraisal criteria. Data were analyzed by inductive

Abstract Traumatic deaths of military personnel can have tragic consequences for the lives and health of bereaved significant others. To mitigate the effects, the UK Armed Forces enhanced the support for bereaved military families. However, little is known about whether the support has been satisfactory. The present research applied mixed methods to explore the experiences of bereaved UK military families

Abstract Behind a veneer of “disinterested” concern, death rituals reflect and reproduce patterns of social and cultural stratification. This paper examines 296,483 death announcements published in a Turkish daily newspaper in a 60-year timespan. The content analysis of the texts shows that, first, the discourses around death reveal the complex overlaps between cultural boundaries and social stratification

Abstract The Traumatic Grief Inventory Self-Report (TGI-SR), which aims to assess both Persistent Complex Bereavement Disorder and Prolonged Grief Disorder, has been validated in several languages. This study sought to validate the French-Canadian version. We conducted an online survey exploring the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on grief. With data from 728 participants, the scale demonstrated high

Abstract This study aims to investigate the psychometric properties, stability, and predictive validity of the PG-13-K. Two subsamples were used: the first subsample (N = 153), participated at Time 1 only, and the second subsample (N = 184) participated at both Time 1 and Time 2. At each time point, reliability, test-retest reliability, and validity were adequate, and the hypothesized two-factor model

Abstract Implementing evidence-based and cost-effective bereavement care is a challenge. A self-report measure could assist to identify caregivers at-risk of prolonged grief. We developed a new measure via five steps: identification of risk and protective factors for prolonged grief, item generation, consultation with an expert panel (n = 8), review by the academic team and expert panel, and a pilot

Abstract We conducted an online survey with individuals bereaved by drug deaths (n = 115), suicide (n = 185) and sudden natural deaths (n = 103), including questions about anticipating the death vs. shock, other behaviors, established measures of mental health and grieving difficulties. Results showed more drug death bereaved anticipating their loved one’s death while suicide bereaved were more shocked

Abstract While suicide attempt survivors often choose to conceal their suicidal thoughts and behaviors to avoid stigma, concealment might also limit the support they receive. This study evaluated a peer-led strategic disclosure intervention for suicide attempt survivors (N = 38) who were randomized to either a 6-hour group disclosure intervention or waitlist control. Results showed a significant group-by-time

Abstract This research examined the relationships among emotional intelligence, positive and negative affect, and suicide ideation between Spanish adolescents in a 4-month follow-up study. Adolescents (N = 1,174) from Southern Spain completed an emotional intelligence scale and, 4 months later, 818 of them completed scales measuring affect and suicide ideation. Mediation analyses revealed that both

(2022). Windmills and pediatric palliative Care. Death Studies. Ahead of Print.

Abstract Most research on physician-assisted dying (PAD) in the Netherlands focuses on general practitioners (GPs). Less is known about the perspectives of other professionals. We performed narrative interviews with 10 professionals other than GPs to explore their perspectives on PAD in primary care. The results provide insight into PAD as an enacted practice involving many different actors, considerations

Abstract In view of the mounting death toll of COVID-19 worldwide and the complicating circumstances that commonly accompany such losses, we studied the grief experiences of 209 adult mourners who lost a loved one to coronavirus with a focus on self-blaming emotions and unresolved issues with the deceased. We found universal endorsement of one or more forms of self-blame (guilt, regret, shame) or unfinished

Abstract The present study investigated the lived experience of bereaved family members from grief due to COVID-19 using descriptive phenomenological method via in-depth interviews. The participants (N = 30) were spouses, children, parents, and siblings of the deceased. The obtained data from interviewing were analyzed using Colaizzi’s method. Eight main themes were obtained. Findings suggest that

Abstract The use of animal-assisted therapy with children who have experienced trauma is receiving increasing attention in the literature. However, there is a lack of attention given to the death of therapy animals. The scholarship on the death of animal companions highlights a varying depth of acknowledgment of children’s grief. This article draws on the clinical experience of one therapy center’s

Abstract Bereavement photography has been recognized as an important tool to create memories and as a support service for parents experiencing perinatal loss. This paper explores the impact of volunteering on posttraumatic growth among photographers working with parents impacted by stillbirth. Using a mixed-methods design, 141 Australian and New Zealand volunteer bereavement photographers were recruited

Abstract Suicide-loss survivors are an at-risk population for complicated grief and suicide ideation. This study examined mentalization deficits as a possible moderator of the association between complicated grief and suicide ideation. Suicide-loss survivors (N = 152) completed questionnaires on complicated grief, suicide ideation, and mentalization deficits. Mentalization deficits facilitated suicide

Abstract Within South African cultures, bereavement rituals are intended to promote healing on the part of the widow and demonstrate respect for the deceased. We explored the experiences of 10 Black South African widows regarding cultural mourning rituals and whether they were perceived to violate human rights or were necessary cultural practices. Findings from telephone interviews revealed that the

Abstract In most jurisdictions where medical assistance in dying (MAiD) is legal, patients must have decision-making capacity. Brain cancer often damages the cognitive networks required to maintain decision-making capacity. Using qualitative methodology guided by a relational ethics conceptual framework, this study explored neuro-oncology clinicians’ perspectives on access to and eligibility for MAiD

Abstract Exposure to a suicide carries risks for loss survivors including significant and long-standing emotional distress. Early responders play a critical role in shaping survivors’ experience and trajectory for seeking support services. Yet, few prior studies explore the nuances of early responders’ interactions with loss survivors. The current study explored suicide-bereaved adults’ experiences

Abstract Experiencing the death of a loved one can have a substantial negative impact on the grief and mental health of students. However, the bereavement can also lead to personal growth. We investigated the association between personal growth and support, grief, and distress. Bereaved students (N = 666) at Flemish universities and colleges (Belgium) completed an online survey with sociodemographic

Abstract The aim was to identify the prevalence and correlates of coronavirus anxiety in the nationally representative adult population in Germany (N = 3,075) via an online survey conducted in August/September 2021. The Coronavirus Anxiety Scale was used to quantify coronavirus anxiety. In sum, 71.2% of the respondents did not report coronavirus anxiety at all (i.e., a score of zero). The average score

Abstract With nearly 4 million deaths worldwide, COVID-19 has resulted in a great loss of life. For many of the bereaved, the grieving process has been especially difficult due to COVID-19 spatial distancing procedures and the traumatic circumstances of this particular form of loss. Consequently, a large number of the world’s bereaved are experiencing dysfunctional levels of grief. To assess such grief

Abstract This qualitative study applied thematic analysis to semi-structured interviews with 15 key informants who self-identified as primary caregivers to at least one grandchild. Using Family Systems Theory and Theory of Planned Behavior as guiding frameworks, this study reports grandparent caregivers’ end-of-life planning behaviors while illuminating factors influencing these behaviors. The analysis

Abstract This study examined suicide stigma in relation to Korean cultural characteristics, such as Collectivism, Chemyon sensitivity (concern about losing a socially acceptable face), the tendency toward conformity, and the emphasis on the interdependent self. We found that these characteristics were connected to suicide stigma in Korea. Those with high Chemyon sensitivity tended to perceive that

Abstract The study shows the effects of a death education workshop with Italian high school students. Students (N = 416) from 10 high schools throughout Italy participated: 212 in the experimental group and 204 in the control group. Four weekly, two-hour workshops about the themes of death, with theoretical lessons and an experiential artistic activity of photovoice. Results show that the students

Abstract Although spirituality can be a source of support during end-of-life and engage a transformative experience after loss, few studies report family members’ spiritual and existential needs considering their experiences over time. We conducted a longitudinal interpretative phenomenological analysis from audio-recorded interviews of 10 family caregivers while providing end-of-life care for cancer

Abstract Little is known about those who are widowed while raising dependent children. This study aimed to explore the factors which influence adjustment to partner death. Seven fathers and five mothers were interviewed, and constructivist grounded theory was used. Three interrelated themes were identified: Interpersonal influences, Intrapersonal influences, and Contextual influences. Dependent children

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic revealed a need for people and communities for death preparation. Few studies have examined community-level interventions for death preparation and education. This scoping review scrutinized the relevant literature following PRISMA 2018 guidelines. Six databases were searched for articles published between 2010 and 2020. We found that cultural, socioeconomic, and individual

Abstract Psychologists may have a uniquely high risk for suicide. We examined whether, among 172 psychologists, factors predicting suicide risk among the general population (e.g., gender and mental illness), occupational factors (e.g., burnout and secondary traumatic stress), and past trauma predicted suicidality. We also tested whether resilience and meaning in life were negatively related to suicidality

(2022). The ADEC handbook of thanatology, 3rd edition. Death Studies. Ahead of Print.

Abstract In this cross-sectional study, regressions and multivariate analyses of covariance were used to assess group differences regarding family resilience, family coherence, and social support among 184 widows from three cultural groups in Israel: Druze (n = 66), Jewish (n = 59), and Muslim (n = 59). Druze widows had the lowest social support, but no differences were found between groups regarding

Abstract In this study, 20 medical assistance in dying (MAiD) providers were interviewed about their experience when assessing patients with unmet needs, including medical, financial or social needs. Collectively they had experience with over 3700 MAiD assessments and found that unmet needs were rare. In the cases where patients had unmet needs, these were usually related to loneliness and poverty

Abstract This study examined the psychometric properties of the Turkish form of the Pet Bereavement Questionnaire (PBQ). Bereaved people (N = 688) completed the PBQ, Grief and Meaning Reconstruction Inventory, and Traumatic Grief Inventory. Although the factor structure is consistent with the original, the Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analysis indicated that two items should be included in a

Abstract This study examined the psychometric properties of the Slovak version of the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS-SK) in a sample of adult Slovaks (N = 743). The data were collected online during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Slovakia. Along with the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale, the Perceived Stress Scale, and the Well-Being Index were administered to the respondents. The results of

Abstract We aimed to describe the prevalence and factors associated with suicidal ideation in a sample of 1238 medical students from different medical schools in Peru based on question 9 of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Our results revealed that 17.9% of the participants had suicidal ideation. Furthermore, using logistic regression, we found that not practicing any religion, the presence

Abstract Lethal fetal diagnosis defines severe developmental disorders that lead to the death of a fetus or newborn. Using semi-structured interviews, we explored the experiences of women in Poland who actively decided to continue with the pregnancy after diagnosis. We thematically analyzed data collected from 10 women. We identified four themes: pregnancy as an experience of prenatal motherhood; the

Abstract Continuing bonds is a multifaceted process, encompassing perceptions, beliefs, illusions and hallucinations, and overt behaviors. We developed the Proximity-Seeking Behavior Scale (PSBS) to assess overt behavior to continue bonds with the deceased person. We had 694 bereaved adults complete an online survey. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses yielded a one-factor model for PSBS items

Abstract The study aimed to examine the validity of the Suicide Behavior Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ-R) among adult Filipinos experiencing severe depression symptoms during the COVID-19-related lockdowns in 2020. Results support SBQ-R’s internal reliability. Confirmatory factor analyses supported SBQ-R’s one-factor structure and its measurement invariance across gender and age. The SBQ-R’s positive

Abstract In this research article we explored the dialogical mechanisms of ideological meaning making in the aftermath of traumatic loss, via descriptive phenomenological qualitative research. Thirty-three individuals who lost a close family member in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict were interviewed regarding the dialogues they had about their ideology in the aftermath of their loss. Analysis identified

Abstract With the COVID-19 pandemic prompting predictions of a “grief pandemic,” rates and risks for Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) warrant further investigation. Data were collected online from 1470 respondents between October 2020 and July 2021. Shorter time since death, deaths of siblings and “others,” and deaths from accidents and homicides were positively associated with potential risk of probable

Abstract The lived experience of caring for people with cancer and the influence of culture on Iranian carers who have elevated levels of prolonged grief symptoms after the death has received little in-depth attention. Bereaved carers (N = 17) were interviewed. All showed high levels of prolonged grief symptoms. Thematic analysis resulted in four overarching themes: unfamiliarity with cancer, high

Abstract We adopted a resilience framework to gain a deeper understanding of the specific ways that grief impacts college students and identify specific ways that counselors can promote resilience among this population. Data from interviews with 10 college students were analyzed using grounded theory. Three categories of themes related to promoting resilience among bereaved college students were extracted:

Abstract Limited research has examined the grief experiences of fathers following neonatal death. Using a qualitative research design, ten fathers were interviewed, and thematic analysis resulted in three overarching themes: ‘A complicated grief experience: Neonatal death is highly emotional’, ‘Grief is multidimensional’ and ‘Sense of injustice’. Overall, results showed that grief was a multidimensional

Abstract We modified an accident analysis model for the study of acute suicidal episodes (ASEs). Our aim was to use this model (SCREAM, Suicidal Cognitions’ Reliability and Error Analysis Method) as a lens to understand the worst-ever ASEs of nine patients who took part in repeated in-depth interviews. Guided by the theory of SCREAM including four predetermined categories, nine themes were identified

Abstract Homicide survivors experience a synergistic mixture of trauma, grief, and injustice. Literature indicates the positive role of forgiveness in healing, nuances to the definitions of forgiveness, and the potential for positive spiritual growth following homicide loss. This secondary, thematic analysis of 16 interviews examines forgiveness as part of the process of spiritual change following

(2022). A poetry of grief. Death Studies. Ahead of Print.

Abstract The current study examined patterns of endorsement of Interpersonal Theory of Suicide constructs in a group of patients with cancer (N = 133) via Latent Profile Analysis. Four profiles were identified: (1) Interpersonally Distressed (n = 7; 5.2%), (2) Burdened (n = 11; 8.3%), (3) Fearless About Death (n = 40; 30.1%), (4) Non-Distressed (n = 75; 56.4%). Profiles with higher levels of thwarted

Abstract Death anxiety is common in advanced cancer due to heightened mortality salience. We tested terror management theory (TMT) in this population (N = 305) by evaluating the buffering effect of the distal defenses (attachment security, meaning, self-esteem) on the impact of physical impairment (a proxy for mortality salience) on death anxiety. Patients with greater numbers of strong distal defenses

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic has changed how end-of-life ceremonies are performed, affecting grief processing and bereavement experiences. In this study, caregivers of patients who died with COVID-19 during the first wave of the pandemic were asked to complete an online survey designed to detect psychosocial factors associated with the presence of complicated grief (CG). The results show CG present

(2021). How the Dougy Center helps children and teens who are grieving. Death Studies. Ahead of Print.

Abstract Altruism is consistently identified as the dominant motive for body donation. Over 12 months, 843 people who requested body donation information packs also completed research questionnaires that included open-ended questions about their motives. Abductive analysis suggested two distinct sets of altruistic motives: those seeking benefits for medical professionals and patient groups (“medical

Abstract The study explored the relationship between social distancing and distress along with risk factors of social distancing. Further, online counseling/mental health services and perceived social support were tested as possible moderators between social distancing and distress. Valid and reliable measures were used to collect the data from 300 Indian respondents. Process use of social networking