Spirituality in children confronting death
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Updated: Aug 29, 2026

Setup and Execution of the Rapid Cycle Deliberate Practice Death Notification Curriculum
Published on: August 5, 2020
Margaret L Stuber1, Beth M Houskamp
1Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California-Los Angeles Neuropsychiatric Institute and Hospital, 760 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90024-1759, USA mstuber@mednet.ucla.edu
Abstract:
This article uses a developmental framework to consider common spiritual issues raised by children and adolescents who are confronting death. The literature exploring the role of children's spirituality in addressing death is used to illustrate specific areas of concern and topics deserving further research. Clinical examples are offered to illustrate the types of situations encountered by mental health professionals dealing with seriously ill children and their families. Recommendations are offered for concrete approaches for mental health professionals dealing with families confronting the death of a child.
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