Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
Department of psychology, Qom branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran.
2
Department of Psychology, Research Institute of Hawzeh and University, Qom, Iran.
10.30471/psy.2024.10200.2250
Abstract
Objective: The current research aims to investigate, identify, and categorize the spiritual factors that influence bereavement in psychological studies.
Method: This study was conducted using a systematic review method in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Data were collected from both Persian and English databases using relevant keywords. Out of an initial pool of 157 articles, 23 were selected for final analysis after meticulous review and assessment of inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Findings: The spiritual factors extracted from the selected articles are categorized into two main groups: Facilitative factors, which include acceptance of death as a part of life, belief in God and secure attachment to Him, belief in divine fate and destiny, patience and reliance in facing hardships, spiritual coping mechanisms such as prayer, pilgrimage, and prayer for tranquility, spiritual health to combat stigma, judgment, and feelings of guilt and self-blame, participation in religious activities; and Growth-promoting factors, which encompass finding new meaning and purpose in life and death, rethinking during bereavement and creating positive attitudes towards it, enhancing understanding of divine wisdom and benevolence, religious worldview about the world, as well as meditation, contemplation, and spiritual experiences.
Conclusion : This study emphasizes that spiritual factors can play a significant role in facilitating the bereavement process and also act as catalysts for individual growth after a period of mourning. Attention to these factors can be effective in designing supportive and therapeutic programs. Recommendations are provided.
Keywords
)