Towards a framework for a culturally centered evidence based prolonged grief group therapy intervention

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Mental Health Research
• Bereavement Studies

Background:

• Black Americans experience disproportionately higher mortality rates linked to socioeconomic factors.
• These disparities worsen bereavement burdens, increasing the risk of prolonged grief (PG).
• Barriers to support include reluctance to seek help, limited access, stigma, provider bias, and cultural insensitivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the acceptability and effectiveness of a culturally adapted Prolonged Grief Group Therapy intervention.
• To explore cultural, systemic, and psychological influences on grief within the Black American community.
• To refine the intervention for improved relevance and efficacy.

Main Methods:

• Pilot study utilizing a three-arm quasi-experimental design.
• Investigating factors influencing grief experiences in Black Americans.
• Iterative refinement of a culturally adapted therapeutic intervention.

Main Results:

• Data on intervention acceptability and efficacy is pending.
• Analysis of cultural, systemic, and psychological factors is ongoing.
• Intervention modifications based on study findings will be detailed.

Conclusions:

• Addressing the therapeutic gap for prolonged grief in Black Americans is critical.
• This research aims to provide evidence for culturally sensitive and accessible interventions.
• The study seeks to improve emotional wellbeing and reduce adverse outcomes of prolonged grief.