ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we examine bereavement practices in the United States across diverse religious, cultural, racial, and underserved groups. The traditions covered are based, in part, on demographic information for the largest religious, cultural, and ethnic groups in the U.S., as well as more diverse populations with differing funeral, burial, and mourning practices. Terms related to the process of loss, to grief feelings, and to the social and cultural expressions of mourning are defined. Some ways in which providers may learn from their patients about bereavement issues are covered. Vignettes are used to illustrate some of these diverse practices, followed by questions for further consideration. Beliefs that seem to be widely shared, regardless of specific religious, racial, or cultural group, are addressed.
