Research on parental bereavement has focused historically on single or partnered cross-gendered (heterosexual) bereaved parents. No previous studies have examined the unique experiences of same-gendered bereaved parents. This multiple-case study focused on child death in same-gendered-parent families. The goal of this study was to yield…

The present research examined the effects of intrinsic and extrinsic goal attainment on older adults' ego-integrity, psychological well-being, and death attitudes. Hypotheses were derived from Self-Determination Theory (SDT; Deci & Ryan, 2000; Vansteenkiste, Ryan, & Deci, in press). Study 1 (N = 202, Mean age = 68.2 years) indicated that, after…

Describes authors' experiences of three abortions and her unresolved grief. Presents authors' writing at different times throughout her life. Contends grief therapy must be part of abortion counseling. Claims unresolved grief affects others, relationships, pregnancies, and self-concept. (Author/ABL)

The hospice philosophy seeks to meet the needs of dying patients and their families. These needs include: effective control of pain; to be loved and to alleviate loneliness; to retain dignity and maintain control of as many aspects of life as possible; and to help the family be supportive and adapt to their inevitable loss. (JMF)

Interviewed 14 couples who had a child die. All parents, particularly mothers, expressed guilt. For most couples, guilt and grief interfered with intimacy, although being held was a comforting device. Producing a replacement child was common among couples of child bearing age. (JAC)

Purpose: Longitudinal research in dementia has acknowledged the importance of transitions during the course of family caregiving. However, long-term adaptation to institutionalization has received little attention. This study attempts to describe caregivers' adaptation (changes in stress, well-being, and psychosocial resources) to placement up to…

All works of literature reflect man's obsession with death and his creative attempts to evade or postpone it. Art cannot solve the problem, but within the limits of human capabilities, we come to art, whether as artists or audience, for our own small share in the "intimations of immortality." (Author/SJL)

The article describes counseling with chronically/terminally ill children and adolescents at the Boston Children's Hospital using a special education-oriented philosophy of support. The authors take a view which emphasizes life and focuses on ways to maintain meaning in the child's life. (SBH)

Studied attitudes of eight hospital groups on several aspects of terminal care by means of a questionnaire. Responses of the groups, which included physicians, residents, nurses, aides, and orderlies, did not differ on general statements about terminal care. On more specific statements perception of personal involvement influenced responses.…

Examines the effects of contemporaneous circumstances on the death attitudes of older adults. Findings suggest that the present social and psychological environment of the aged plays a less significant role in their attitudes toward death than is presently reflected in social gerontology. (Author)

Investigates self-destructive behavior in terms of interpersonal strategies of manipulation. Males and females anticipating sudden violent death (SVD) showed higher needs for control while SVD males demonstrated impaired competency in the expression of affectional needs. Inability to express affection may lead to perceptions of the self as…

Discusses the importance of rituals and concrete things to help children deal with the death of a loved one. Eight books of fiction for elementary students that portray young people dealing with death are summarized, and ideas for classroom and library activities are suggested. (PEN)

Studies how a self-help group can facilitate parents' mourning process following a stillbirth. With family-to-family contact and group discussions, the reality of the stillbirth is validated, the empty feelings of the loss the parents are experiencing are acknowledged, and the guilt the couples are feeling is eased. (Author)

Terminally ill children need rules, limits, and reasonable goals to work toward. Parents and teachers should maintain routines for these children as much as possible. (CL)

A study to determine whether any previous training had been received in death counseling, to assess the need for resident physicians to provide such counseling, and to define the self-perceived confidence level of resident physicians in providing psychosocial support to dying patients and their families is described. (Author/MLW)