Chinese cultural scripts of grief: a qualitative study considering cultural value orientations

Bereavement is a universal experience shaped by cultural context. Although grief has been extensively studied in Western settings, culturally specific post-bereavement expressions among Chinese populations remain insufficiently understood. The concept of cultural scripts of grief (CSGs) captures culture-specific manifestations of bereavement-related responses and highlights the cultural sensitivity of grief sequelae. This study aimed to identify CSGs elements among Chinese-bereaved individuals and to explore the cultural values underpinning these elements.

A semi-qualitative design was employed, combining content and thematic analyses of eight focus groups with 25 bereaved individuals and 11 grief experts.

A total of 106 CSGs elements were identified and organized into eight domains, such as cognitive changes, emotional changes, behavioral changes, and growth. These grief experiences were linked to cultural values such as death taboo, filial piety, and collectivism.

Cognitive changes, emotional changes, and social relationships symptoms were culturally salient. Death taboo and filial piety emerged as dominant values shaping Chinese CSGs. It enriches the knowledge of grief and culture. Knowledge about CSGs may provide a culture-specific perspective that can help to understand individual experiences of grief and enable mental health practitioners to administer culturally sensitive assessments and interventions.