The National Archive of Grief Support Studies
The National Archive of Grief Support Studies(NAGSS) database provides bibliographical information and summaries of recent articles selected for their relevance to grief and bereavement service providers. The articles that are summarized are selected from scholarly, peer-reviewed journals and are intended to highlight key concepts as well as provide a brief statement of implications for service providers. Bibliographical information may be used to obtain the original article.
What is “No Recovery?”
Authors:
Kauffman, Jeffrey
Source:
Death Studies: 2008. Volume 32, pp. 74-83.
Summary
This article is an essay that examines the meaning of “recovery” and “no recovery” in the context of grief and bereavement. Kauffman states that social authorities have traditionally imposed norms of recovery following death, and that the recovery norm produces order and allows individuals to retain their identities. Kauffman argues that allowing the possibility of no recovery, and questioning the traditionally accepted norm of recovery following death, is a reflection of a post-modern, self-destructive trend that results in open-ended mourning and permanent disruption of lives. He also presents a case study in which inability to recover from bereavement is adopted by the client as a moral responsibility.
Key words: moral, norm, recovery
Service Provider Implications
This article provides thought-provoking comments about the issue of whether recovery after bereavement should be considered a social norm. Service providers may benefit from being familiar with the different points of view regarding this issue.
