PURPOSE The purpose of this assignment is to provide the student with knowledge

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 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. Choose either a cultural background such as, but not limited to, European (Italian, Polish, Irish, etc.), Indian, Native American (Navajo, Tuscarora, Seneca, etc.), African-American, or Hispanic (Mexican, Puerto-Rican, Cuban, etc.) OR a religious background such as, but not limited to, Catholicism, Judaism, Hinduism, Muslim, Buddhist, or Evangelical Christian. 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. 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.