SOAD3008 Loss and Grief in Social Work Practice

This topic seeks to examine the theoretical and intervention aspects of loss, grief and bereavement, in professional social work practice. Loss and grief themes are evident in much of the practice in which social workers and other practitioners are involved, and this topic attempts to sensitise students to these themes and to increase their skills in working with persons experiencing bereavement and other types of loss.

This topic aims to:

• Introduce students to the basic themes and theories about the experience of grief
• Broaden students' perspective of loss and grief beyond death-related loss by examining various types of losses and their impact
• Increase students' awareness of the impact that loss experiences have on the development and functioning of individuals and families
• Increase students' knowledge of various frameworks for understanding loss and grief and corresponding clinical interventions

1. Recognise the indicators of grief responses
2. Assist clients to identify loss experiences and express the feelings and issues related to these experiences
3. Implement various interventions to help clients work on grief-related concerns
4. Recognise appropriate community services and resources available to grieving clients
5. Practice in a way that is sensitive to cultural differences around grief