Conception and Experiences of Grief Among Ghanaian Children

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to explore the conceptions and experiences of grief due to death among Ghanaian children. The study employed a phenomenological study design to understand the lived experiences of Ghanaian children, using a semi-structured interview guide. Participants were purposefully sampled. Thirty school-going children aged between 7 and 17 (average age: 13.83) who had experienced the loss of a loved one, were interviewed in English and Twi. Recorded interviews were transcribed and translated for analysis in English. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. A total of seven themes were developed: 1) Understanding death and grief; 2) Expressions of grief; 3) Impact of loss; 4) Self-help strategies; 5) Social support; 6) Bereavement rituals; and 7) Concerns and challenges in grief. Findings highlight the needs of bereaved children experiencing grief, provide avenues for extensive research into the subject area, and offer relevant knowledge to all stakeholders.

Keywords

grief bereaved deceased child loss conception support

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