title: The spiritual and psychological explanations for loss experience.
abstract: This paper examines the differences in the ability of patients to utilize supportive resources offered through hospice depending upon the individual's ego strength and spiritual resources. The author surveys psychological and spiritual theories for differences in how patients respond to terminal illness. The responses of three dying patients are analyzed relative to their ability to utilize emotional and spiritual support in the face of loss. Strategic approaches for hospice staff providing care are suggested.
authors.affiliation: Allegheny Hospice, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA.
authors.forename: M A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Kazanjian
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D005260:Female; D006117:Grief; D017051:Hospice Care / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008960:Models, Psychological; D010327:Pastoral Care; D012069:Religion and Psychology; D012944:Social Support