Presents the experiences of loss, death and bereavement as it is viewed by individuals, families and loved ones. It will examine theories on grief and loss across the lifespan and how social factors may impact the grieving process. Further, the role of spirituality and coping will be explored.
The course is designed for students who have an interest in working with populations with health care challenges.
This course will train social workers for practice in end-of-life services including hospice, hospital social work in pediatric and adult oncology, palliative care units, and other social work settings focused on the needs of individuals at the end of life, their families and bereaved individuals. This course is essential because all social workers, regardless of practice settings, will inevitably work with clients facing acute or long-term situations involving life-limiting illness, dying, death, grief, and bereavement. At the present time, there is a growing need for professionally trained social workers who can provide high quality services to people at end-of life, to their families and to those who are bereaved.
This course will be based on the biblical principle written in Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” As Christians, we have to understand that death and dying is part of God creation and social workers needs to have faith in the Lord when working with patients in hospice care.
This course will challenge students to work with people experiencing grief and loss. Students can then impact these families with biblical teachings.
At the present time, there is a growing need for professionally trained social workers who can provide high quality services to people at end-of life, to their families and to those who are bereaved. The context of this course will prepare student to be able to work with this population.
A focus on hospice and social work practice will enhance student understanding of how different cultures handle grief and loss.
Students will have field placements within the hospice and palliative care environment and will therefore have the practical experience working with family going through loss and grief.
Students will be able to put together what they will be learning to practice when they graduate and go into the world to practice social work in the healthcare setting.
