Teaching Death, Grief and Bereavement

Neil Thompson, Independent writer, educator and adviser and Visiting Professor at the Open University, UK and Gerry R. Cox, Emeritus Professor, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, USA

• ContentsForeword xiPreface xiiiIntroduction to Teaching Death, Grief and Bereavement 1PART I EFFECTIVE EDUCATIONIntroduction to Part I 71 Why am I learning this? 82 The central role of values 113 Critically reflective practice 154 Relating theory to practice 225 Learning to learn 276 The challenges of teaching about death, grief and bereavement 337 Getting started 39PART II THE SOCIOLOGICAL IMAGINATIONIntroduction to Part II 458 Incorporating the social dimension 469 Teaching about the sociological imagination 50PART III DEATH AND MORTALITYIntroduction to Part III 11310 Death awareness 11411 Teaching about death and mortality 119PART IV DYING AND END-OF-LIFE CAREIntroduction to Part IV 17412 Preparing for the end 17513 Teaching about dying and end-of-life care 180PART V GRIEF AND BEREAVEMENTIntroduction to Part V 20714 The price we pay for love 20815 Teaching about grief and bereavement 21516 Conclusion to Teaching Death, Grief and Bereavement 261References 264Appendix 1: Guide to further learning 267Appendix 2: Further teaching ideas 270Appendix 3: Exercise contributors 273

‘This volume is an exemplary contribution to the fields of thanatology and bereavement studies. It offers clear and accessible guidance on a challenging subject. One of the most commendable features of the book is its practical orientation. The authors bridge the gap between theoretical insights and real-world application by including chapters on reflective practice, the sociological imagination, and applied exercises. This integration ensures that educators can understand the content and effectively translate it into meaningful learning experiences. The authors’ extensive expertise shines through, providing readers with a rich blend of personal reflections, academic rigour, and practical advice. Including various exercises and teaching tools enriches the material, fostering a dynamic learning environment for students. Furthermore, the book’s emphasis on the emotional and ethical dimensions of teaching bereavement is particularly notable, highlighting the importance of sensitivity and self-awareness for educators. Overall, this text is a must-read for social work, psychology, and palliative care education professionals. It equips educators with the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate the complexities of grief education with integrity and compassion.'