Use of Bibliotherapy in Bereaved Parents Whose Child Died of Cancer

Use of Bibliotherapy in Bereaved Parents

Abstract

        In this article, we discuss the use of bibliotherapy in bereaved parents whose children died of cancer to attract attention to the importance of bibliotherapy. Bibliotherapy, a form of psychotherapy, involves using any text to improve physical, mental, social, spiritual, and/or religious health, through reading, discussing, and facilitating a greater understanding. Bibliotherapy may benefit patients with problems of living such as dealing with life crises and transitions, parents, and children, parenting, coping with illness and disability, death and dying, lifestyle modification, sexuality, and coping with feelings. Bibliotherapy is as old as human history. Texts in the holy books of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam are also included in the notion of bibliotherapy. When appropriate books or texts are selected, bibliotherapy, an ancient treatment method, can be beneficial for bereaved parents. “Letter of Condolence on the Death of a Child” written by Nursi, is a suitable option for bereaved parents whose child has died.