- Loss and Mourning

Catalog description

This course introduces students to the nature and centrality of the experience of loss and subsequent grief in their personal lives, in the lives of their clients, and in their role as professional helpers. This course emphasizes the variety and types of loss experiences throughout the life cycle. Special attention will be given to the cultural variations and norms in the grief experience and the importance of social justice and human rights. This course examines how psychological, social, cultural, and historical factors influence individuals' coping responses during loss and the last stage of life. Controversial health care, end of life, organ donation, and after life issues will be explored. In addition, special populations will be discussed, such as the loss of a child or losing a loved one to violence. This course is designed to stimulate a deeper self-awareness, a greater ability to be more mindful, and an increased skill in assisting others and ourselves through the grief process. This class is beneficial for social work students or students in other helping professions.