Synopses & Reviews
Working with Family Systems, Illness, and LossFamilies Facing Death was the first book to comprehensively address the problems of families facing the struggle of living with dying. This updated paperback edition combines theoretical information with specific suggestions for developing the critical skills needed to manage psychosocial symptoms for the patient and family, both during illness and after death.In this down-to-earth, practical guide the author's valuable insights show healthcare professionals how to help families define and facilitate the tasks they must undertake to adjust to this difficult time. Intrinsic to the author's approach is the belief that illness and loss represent more than simply a crisis for the family; they also present a tremAndous opportunity for self-awareness, transformation, and growth.
Review
"This is an excellent book. . . . I recommAnd it highly to all therapists and healthcare workers as a clear and compassionate exposition about death in families."
"A clinical tour de force?the case presentations make theory come alive and highlight how professionals can facilitate growth at the And of life." (Dale G. Larson, author, The Helper's Journey: Working With People Facing Grief, Loss, and Life-Threatening Illness)
"Insightful application of family systems theory and practical wisdom from years of counseling experience make Families Facing Death an invaluable resource for anyone who cares for people confronting life-limiting illness or living with grief." (Ira Byock, author, Dying Well)
Synopsis
A down-to-earth and highly practical guide, this is the first book to explain and illustrate the relationship between family systems, illness, and loss. This updated paperback edition includes theoretical information along with specific suggestions for developing the important skills needed to manage psychosocial symptoms in the patient and family, both during illness and after death. The author explains how to understand the dynamics of the family as an interactive, intradepAndent system. He also explains how to help families define and facilitate the tasks they must take to adjust to illness and loss.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. [173]-176).
Table of Contents
Focus on the Family.
The Family as a System.
Loss and the Life Cycle.
The Family Prepares for Death.
The Grieving Family.
Helping Families Face Death.
An Ethnic Perspective.
Ethical Dilemmas.
Appendix A: Annotated Filmography.
Appendix B: Reading List.