Do religious or spiritual beliefs influence bereavement? A systematic review

Abstract

Available data do not allow for a definite answer on whether religious/spiritual beliefs effectively influence bereavement as most studies suffer from weaknesses in design and methodological flaws. Further research is needed. Recommendations for further research are given.

Beliefs in Reincarnation and the Power of Fate and Their Association With Emotional Outcomes Among Bereaved Parents of Fallen Soldiers

“…Becker et al (2007) concluded, following a review of 32 studies on the impact of religious or spiritual beliefs on bereavement, that there is a lack of evidence in the field because of weaknesses in design and methodological flaws. Among the recommendations for future studies on the impact of religion on bereavement offered by Becker and her colleagues was the need to include a control group.…”

Ayudando a Una Loba Solitaria y Su Cub Moribundo: Helping a Lone Wolf and Her Dying Cub

“…It is no surprise that religion and spirituality are beneficial for consolation and understanding extreme loss [13,19]. According to Scneidman, as referenced by Marrone, "Mourning is one of the most profound human experiences…The deep capacity to weep for the loss of a loved one and to continue to treasure the memory of that loss is one of our noblest human traits" (p. 503) [19].…”

“…In addition, Wortman, as noted by Marrone, found religious and spiritual beliefs helped parents not only to find meaning in a child's death, but were indirectly related to less distress among parents 18 months later [19]. Finally, Becker et al conducted research study the relationship of spirituality and grief through a systematic review [13]. Although the findings were varied, Thearle and colleagues, as referenced by Becker et al, studied 260 families after the loss of a child and found that bereaved parents who attended church regularly had less depression and anxiety [13].…”

“…Finally, Becker et al conducted research study the relationship of spirituality and grief through a systematic review [13]. Although the findings were varied, Thearle and colleagues, as referenced by Becker et al, studied 260 families after the loss of a child and found that bereaved parents who attended church regularly had less depression and anxiety [13]. Despite the fact that there is some evidence to support that religion and spirituality are helpful during times of acute grief and mourning, Becker et Braun and Nichols conducted a study to explore this in Asian American cultures [20].…”

“…Becker and colleagues assert that after a death in the family, people may experience distress, PTSD like symptoms, and depression [13]. Although depression can be influenced by a myriad of factors including genetics (e.g.…”