Grief as a Family Process : A Developmental Approach to Clinical Practice

Shapiro, Ester R.

ISBN 10: 0898621968 / ISBN 13: 9780898621969

Published by Taylor & Francis Group, 1994

Former library book; may include library markings. Used book that is in clean, average condition without any missing pages. Seller Inventory # GRP86352094

Synopsis:

This volume extends and integrates approaches such as developmental psychology, psychoanalytic and family systems theory, and cultural anthropology into a systemic developmental model that emphasizes ways grief can enhance the emotional growth of the family system. The model presented here views grief as a natural process through which a therapist can help families live, and even grow. Using examples from a wide variety of cultural traditions, this book argues for an attachment to, instead of detachment from, the deceased family member to sustain and enhance family development. This book is indispensable to any helping professional who works with grieving families, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, family therapists, physicians, nurses, hospice and patient home workers, clergypeople, and many others. It also serves as a text in courses on bereavement, family development, family and child therapy, and developmental psychopathology.

Review: ..".Shapiro presents a sound, well-researched, and well-structured treatment of a difficult topic. Her generous use of case examples enlivens and clarifies her presentation, and the topic headings used throughout the book make it a valuable resource. In my practice, I have seen many families dealing with grief.. I now feel that I can do a better job helping these families by using the ideas Shapiro explores." --Jim Stafford, University of Mississippi, Families in Society

..".Whatever their theoretical perspectives, readers will find useful this introduction to an integrative, adaptive model of grief...The writing is well organized, and is rich with both case material and pertinent research findings from bereavement and trauma literature...Readers will profit from insight into grief as a family life cycle transition requiring transformation of enduring relational bonds...The author handles this difficult subject with understanding and compassion." --S. Dale White, M. Div., MSSW, Florida State University, American Journal of Family Therapy

"Bereaved families have been neglected and isolated by our society's denial of death and discomfort with loss. Ester Shapiro weaves together family, developmental, and systemic perspectives into a useful conceptual framework to enable clinicians and grief counselors to better understand family bereavement processes. Highly recommended for professional training and practice to help families master the challenges of loss." --Froma Walsh, Ph.D.

"Anyone who reads this compelling book--and every individual and family mental health practitioner should--will greatly expand her or his understanding of the profound reverberations of death and bereavement. It brilliantly manages a seminal conceptual integration of three crucial perspectives--family systems, developmental, and sociocultural--with a tone so evocative and illustrations so rich that the reader can resonate with the emotions of grief and mourning and gain insight into what the author so aptly describes as the need to create new relationships with the dead. A truly excellent accomplishment." --Celia Jaes Falicov, Ph.D.

"This book is, quite simply, one of the best books in the field that I have read in years....A moving and profound book, filled with both pain and triumph, and most of all characterized by that rarest of qualities--wisdom. This is a much needed book on a topic too readily avoided. Every clinician will find it an enormously valuable aid not just to working with grief and bereavement but as a model of how the sensitive clinician is attuned to individual and cultural particularities. I have rarely if ever seen a more effective synthesis of sociocultural considerations and the insights of depth psychology. A real gem!" --Paul L. Wachtel, Ph.D.

"Ester Shapiro writes powerfully with penetrating insight and practical advice that will afford both understanding and solace to many grieving hearts." --Earl A. Grollman, D.D., author of Living When A Loved One Has Died
"Shapiro presents sound, well-researched, and well-structured treatment of a difficult topic. Her generous use of case examples enlivens and clarifies her presentation, and the topic headings used throughout the book make it a valuable resource. In my practice, I have seen many families dealing with grief...I now feel that I can do a better job helping these families by using the ideas Shapiro explores."-- (08/07/1994)

Bibliographic Details

Title: Grief as a Family Process : A Developmental ...
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Group
Publication Date: 1994
Binding: Hardcover
Condition: Good
Edition: 1st.