Bibliotherapy and Bereavement: Harnessing the Power of Reading to Enhance Family Coping in Pediatric Palliative Care

J Soc Work End Life Palliat Care. 2020 Apr-Jun;16(2):85-98. doi: 10.1080/15524256.2020.1745728. Epub 2020 Apr 1.

Abstract

Bibliotherapy is a therapeutic intervention that could potentially be utilized by pediatric palliative care social workers to aid in providing individualized support and adaptive coping techniques through end-of-life and bereavement. Multiple modalities of implementing bibliotherapy are considered, including applications in individual and group counseling. An institutionally supported bibliotherapy program that aims to provide therapeutic and recreational texts for patients, families and clinicians is described. Suggested guidelines and book titles for use in practice with bereaved siblings and families are provided alongside targeted description for use in clinical practice.

Keywords: Bibliotherapy; bereavement; children/pediatrics; grief/loss; palliative care.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Bereavement*
  • Bibliotherapy / organization & administration*
  • Family / psychology*
  • Grief
  • Humans
  • Palliative Care / organization & administration*
  • Palliative Care / psychology
  • Social Support
  • Terminal Care / organization & administration
  • Terminal Care / psychology