Understanding Child and Adolescent Grief by Carrie Arnold

Understanding Child and Adolescent Grief by Carrie Arnold

Understanding Child and Adolescent Grief incorporates theory, clinical applications, case studies, and current research on contemporary models of grief pertaining to children and adolescents. The integration of developmental perspectives, attachment theory, and neurobiological implications provides a thorough summary of the many factors that can affect a child's growth and development, and the subsequent influence on grief expression. Chapters explore relevant social topics rarely addressed in other texts, such as the death of African American men, suicide among Aboriginal youth in Canada, death/suicide among LGBTQ youth and social media's influence. Also included are practical tips for helping professionals who want to better understand how grief and loss affect children and teens, as well as a meditation guide that provides concrete opportunities for growth and healing.

"Carrie Arnold's Understanding Child and Adolescent Grief offers a treasure trove for educators and cliniciansThe authors skillfully weave sound and current grief theory, solid developmental perspectives, and clinical practice in a rich tapestry. Understanding Child and Adolescent Grief provides both breadth and depth as it explores a range of issues from life-limiting illness to suicide. It includes an unusual sensitivity to diversity that encompasses such areas as death among the African American community as well as suicide among Aboriginal youth in Canada and LBGT adolescents. Understanding Child and Adolescent Grief should be read by clinicians, educators, and anyone who works with that so vulnerable population.

Kenneth J. Doka, PhD, professor, The Graduate School, The College of New Rochelle, senior consultant, The Hospice Foundation of America

"This book provides a solid foundation for understanding the needs of grieving children and adolescents. The contributing authors present contemporary theories and practical applications, moving beyond single-focused ‘mental disorder’ issues into how social, political, and cultural influences contribute to both challenges and growth potential for bereaved youth. I highly recommend it for clinicians, grief professionals, and anyone wanting to increase their knowledge of this often misunderstood population."
Donna Schuurman, EdD, FT, executive director emeritus, The Dougy Center for Grieving Children and Families

"Understanding Child and Adolescent Grief demonstrates that we still have much to learn about the many dimensions of loss, grief, bereavement, and mourning experienced by children and adolescents. Carrie Arnold and her contributors explore all of the principal types of losses experienced by youngsters (and more), while emphasizing throughout a holistic perspective of caring. This is an impressive book, especially valuable for its breadth, depth, and strong cohort of Canadian contributors."

Charles A. Corr, PhD, recipient of the Herman Feifel Award for Outstanding Achievement in Thanatology from the International Work Group on Death, Dying, and Bereavement (November, 2016)

Carrie Arnold, MEd, has been an adjunct faculty in thanatology and psychology at King’s University College, Western University since 2005. She is a Canadian Certified Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association and is registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. She has provided psychotherapy and counseling to children, adolescents, and adults since 1999.