Traumatology of grieving: Conceptual, theoretical, and treatment foundations(Series in Trauma and Loss)

Those grieving the loss of a loved one who has died under traumatic circumstances form a special group of mourners. Separate from those going through "simple bereavement", these mourners must cope with a double-edged sword: the grief of the loss and the trauma of the knowledge of how the loved one may have had to endure traumatic stress during their final minutes of life. This addition to the "Series in Trauma and Loss" should enable mental health professionals to distinguish between those who are going through the "normal" grieving process in the aftermath of a traumatic event, and those who are suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. A byproduct of years of research and experience, this book helps buttress the theoretical bridge between thanatology and traumatology. It focuses on the unique features of death-related PTSD, its assessment, and treatment. With case examples that draw upon consistent concepts and definitions, and equal attention to scholarly and practical concerns, the book argues that traumatic elements must be worked through first before grief and loss accommodations are achieved. More importantly, the research and treatment methods presented by experts in the field provide professionals and laymen alike with a useful guide for understanding and helping those who grieve a loss under traumatic circumstances. Divided into two parts, Part One attempts to lay the empirical and theoretical foundation for the treatment chapters that follow. Part Two provides direction for helping clients grieve their traumatic losses.

Table of Contents:
PART 1: CONCEPTUAL AND EMPIRICAL FOUNDATIONS 1 Conceptualizing Death and Trauma: A Preliminary Endeavor 2 Empirical Perspectives on Contextualizing Death and Trauma 3 Factors Associated With Effective Loss Accommodation 4 Intersections of Grief and Trauma: Family Members' Reactions to Homicide 5 Duty-Related Deaths and Police Spouse Survivors: Group Support Effects 6 Emotional Dissociation, Self-Deception, and Adaptation to Loss PART 2: APPLICATIONS 7 Bereavement After Homicide: Its Assessment and Treatment 8 The Treatment of PTSD Through Grief Work and Forgiveness 9 Relieving the Naumatic Aspects of Death with Naumatic Incident Resolution and EMDR 10 Death-Related Treatment Applications for the Elderly 11 Safety Reconnaissance for Grieving Trauma Survivors

About the Author :
CHARLES R. FIGLEY, Ph.D.  Psychosocial Stress Research and Development Program Florida State University, Tallahasee, Florida

Review :
"This book covers both theoretical and conceptual issues and practical applications. Overall, the book is well laid out." -- Book Reviews