Scoping Review Examining the Impact of Mourning Rituals on Grief Outcomes in East Asia

While death is a universal experience, how bereaved family members express and cope with the grief that follows varies across cultures. In East Asian cultures death is heavily tied to rigorous cultural practices and rituals, and so are grieving processes. This scoping review is the first to explore the potential impact of grief rituals for bereaved people from East Asia. A systematic review of existing literature was conducted in PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of A reference was selected if: a) the study was conducted in either an East Asian or Southeast Asian country, b) described post-funeral rituals, and c) addressed grief outcomes. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify common themes when carrying out death rituals. Ten studies were included for review. Quantitative findings revealed correlations between funeral satisfaction and physical health, as well as funeral satisfaction and decreased distress over time. Qualitative studies suggested the following themes: 1) death as taboo, 2) family support, 3) public display of grief, and 4) continuing bonds. Our scope review suggests rituals as a mechanism for recovery from the death of a family member. Mourning rituals do not just provide support at the time of death but also help them adjust over time. Mental health providers can consider addressing identified ritual themes when working with grieving clients of East Asian cultural backgrounds.