Abstract
This study investigated the influence of the belief in reincarnation (BR) and in the power of fate (BPF) as potential coping resources in the shadow of loss and bereavement. Ninety bereaved parents, Jews and Druze (a sect that diverged from Islam in the 11th century), whose sons were killed in military action participated in this study. Druze respondents endorsed a belief in reincarnation more strongly than Jews. Druze were also far more fatalistic than their Jewish counterparts and expressed a stronger belief in the power of fate. More Jews than Druze expressed difficulties accepting their son's death and believing he was gone. Druze parents reported experiencing significantly less helplessness, guilt, and anger compared to Jewish controls. The value of enhanced cultural awareness during psychotherapy in a rapidly changing, multicultural world is discussed.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 459-475 |
Number of pages | 17 |
Journal | Journal of Loss and Trauma |
Volume | 16 |
Issue number | 5 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Sep 2011 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Social Psychology
- Psychiatric Mental Health
- Social Sciences (miscellaneous)
- Psychiatry and Mental health