Understanding Bereavement in a Christian University: A Qualitative Exploration

Abstract

This phenomenological study, based on ecological systems theory, examined the college student bereavement experience in a Christian university. Undergraduate students ( N = 127) from a small Christian university provided answers to open‐ended questions about their experiences regarding college following a death loss. Results indicate that students are generally successful in adapting to bereavement and prefer an environment open to discussing death and asking difficult religious questions. Implications for counselors are provided.