Date of Award
6-2019
Document Type
Project
Degree Name
Master of Social Work
Department
School of Social Work
First Reader/Committee Chair
Lanesskog, Deirdre
Abstract
The purpose of the study is to provide an understanding of the emotional and cultural needs Latinos experience when grieving the loss of a loved one. Current research shows that the Latino community is less likely to seek mental health treatment including end of life and bereavement services. This study uses a qualitative approach examining participant’s experiences during the bereaved phase focusing on emotional needs. The study reveals that Latinos experience emotional distress during bereavement and grief. It also identifies a scarcity of programs designed to meet the needs of the bereaved of Latino communities in the Inland Empire where this study takes place. The study explores different barriers that prevent Latinos from accessing and utilizing bereavement services among Latino communities, social work professionals, and organizations focusing on emotional and mental health. The study reveals that Latinos have a need for culturally sensitive programs to help them process feelings of grief and loss; language, values, and traditions are identified as main cultural characteristics including family and religion. The study identifies support groups, counseling, home visits, and phone calls as the top bereavement services needed in Latino communities as well as professionals who can understand their cultural needs.
Recommended Citation
Blanco, Aida, "WHAT CRUCIAL COMPONENTS SHOULD BE INTEGRATED INTO BEREAVEMENT PROGRAMS FOR THE LATINO POPULATION?" (2019). Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations. 872.
https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd/872