Understandings of Death and Dying for People of Chinese Origin

Abstract

This article introduces the primary beliefs about ancestor worship, Taoism, Confucianism, Buddhism and traditional Chinese medicine that have influenced Chinese people for thousands of years, particularly in relation to death and dying. These cultures and traditions remain important for Chinese people wherever they live. Over a long period, Chinese people have integrated these philosophies and religions to form the basis of their culture and traditions. Although they agree that death is a natural part of the life span, a unique belief about death and dying has emerged among the Chinese from this integration. From this, the people find a significant definition of death and dying.

Breast Cancer Survivors' Efforts to Renew and Preserve Their Health in Taiwan

“…Many survivors hoped that improving their Feng shui after they became sick would bring them good health and luck. These results are consistent with those from the literature which suggest that t patients who improved the Feng shui in their living environment experienced having more energy (Hsu et al 2009). …”

“…Taosim developed theories of Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Feng shui, and Tai-Chi Qigong to prolong life. Good Feng shui creates an energy field that would facilitate health and wealth, whereas poor Feng shui may lead to illness and misfortune (Hsu et al, 2009). Tai-Chi Qigong is a form of energy medicine that can restore the exhausted body, promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance the immune system (Lee et al, 2007).…”

Chinese oncology nurses’ experience on caring for dying patients who are on their final days: A qualitative study

“…However, these are obviously contrary to the lack of open communication evident in this study, which revealed that death and dying were not discussed openly with patients; and family members, rather than patients, were consulted about preferences and wishes. Thus, understanding of Chinese cultural beliefs and values is essential to provide culturally sensitive care for cancer patients and their families (Hsu et al, 2009). It is important to explore, understand, respect Chinese cultural beliefs and provide patients with individualized care.…”

“…Compared to western cultures, Chinese culture has a particular perspective on dying and death for the past four millennium due to the profound influences of Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism (Cui et al, 2011;Hsu et al, 2009;Wang et al, 2004b). Even in the 21st century, Chinese people living in either mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, or Australia, the United States, and other parts of the world (Dickinson, 2007;Dickinson et al, 2008;Kao and Lusk, 1997;Wang et al, 2004a;Wong-Kim and Sun, 2003;Xu et al, 2006;Yabroff et al, 2004) still value their culture and traditions about dying and death.…”

“…Even in the 21st century, Chinese people living in either mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, or Australia, the United States, and other parts of the world (Dickinson, 2007;Dickinson et al, 2008;Kao and Lusk, 1997;Wang et al, 2004a;Wong-Kim and Sun, 2003;Xu et al, 2006;Yabroff et al, 2004) still value their culture and traditions about dying and death. Most Chinese people, including health professionals, are reluctant to discuss death for fear of invoking bad luck (Hsu et al, 2009;Tse et al, 2003). Besides, due to the family-oriented culture, it is generally believed that family plays a more important role than an individual in the decision-making process.…”