''FRET NO MORE MY CHILD… FOR I'M ALL OVER HEAVEN ALL DAY'': RELIGIOUS BELIEFS IN THE BEREAVEMENT OF AFRICAN AMERICAN, MIDDLE-AGED DAUGHTERS COPING WITH THE DEATH OF AN ELDERLY MOTHER

Abstract

This article examines the ways in which religious beliefs of 30 African American, middle-aged daughters help them cope with the death of their elderly mothers. This qualitative, exploratory study found that daughters use their beliefs to move through states of grief that allow them to prepare, relinquish control, accept death, and maintain a connection to their mothers beyond death. Important themes identified in this study include the belief in an afterlife and the reunification of family members there. Findings suggest that religious beliefs provide a means for adult daughters to cope with the tasks of living in the present yet maintain a tie with their deceased mothers that serves to enhance their religious beliefs and fortitude in daily living.