PSY-358 Adult Development and Aging

Topic 8 – Grieving Age and Type of Death

Part I: Chart

Directions: Complete each area of the chart below, which investigates various losses and typical, characteristic grief responses. Using expert research, you will also share factors that might complicate the grieving processes, signs that complications might be occurring, and protective factors during this time. Note: some information may overlap. Bullet points are preferred, 25-30 words per box should serve as a general content guide. Integrate at least three expert sources. Include expert citations in proper APA formatting within each box. Full references belong at the end. You may use your textbook as a reference.

Type of Loss

Typical Grief Responses

(e,g mourning, coping mechanisms)

Things that might complicate the bereavement process

(e.g., age, timing, type of death, psychological factors)

Signs/Symptoms of complicated or problematic bereavement

(e.g. hypervigilance, excessive crying)

Protective factors (what can help?) specific to this loss type

(e.g. Support groups)

Note: These factors will apply to multiple loss types

Miscarriage

Death of a child

Death of a male spouse

Death of female spouse

Death of a parent

Death of a friend

Death of pet

Create your own here (e.g. relationship breakup, loss of a job, parent with Alzheimer’s

Part II: Post-Research Reflection

Directions: In a minimum 250-500 words total, answer the following questions using information from class material, expert talks, textbook, and/or any outside research:

1) After researching the above losses, what key factors seem to complicate the bereavement process the most? Does there seem to be a set “time line” for grief in most categories?

2) How do you feel your grief coping skills are? Explain. What protective factors might you utilize in the future to better navigate through grief periods?

3) Considering the factors associated with bereavement among elderly men, why might husbands and wives mourn differently?

4) Think about how various cultures or religions view death, then select a cultural or religious view on death and dying. Describe the view from the culture or religion on death and/or dying.

5) What were your biggest “take-aways” from this assignment (and possibly other material/content presented this week)?

References: