Grief Rituals: Aspects That Facilitate Adjustment to Bereavement

Abstract

This study explores the facilitative aspects of postfuneral rituals in the grief process. Participants included 50 adults who evaluated symbolic activities (rituals) in terms of helpfulness, aspects of those activities, and outcomes of performing such activities. Results confirmed (a) that appropriate rituals can facilitate adjustment to bereavement, (b) that some factors are particularly important for success of rituals, and (c) that performing rituals can have significant positive outcomes for participants.