ABSTRACT
The experience of grief is different for each individual. However, each person’s
grief experience is culturally influenced and can be somewhat predictable because
of their culture. By gaining knowledge of various cultural practices relating
to grief and bereavement, one can learn successful grief management practices
and apply them to other groups. One can also better understand how people of
other cultures respond differently to grief and thereby learn to provide better
services and care. American Indian burial and bereavement practices are similar
to those of other cultures, but they are also different enough to puzzle and stifle
caregivers who work with them. This chapter attempts to outline cultural dif-
ferences among American Indians to assist the caregiver in helping indigenous
peoples deal with their grief.
