Predicting the Reaction to Bereavement Based on the Practice of Religious Beliefs and Seeking Meaning in the Individuals Bereaved Due to Covid-19

 Grief is a widespread phenomenon and a normal reaction to loss. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the painful experiences of loss and disability caused unbearable grief, regret, and even anger to the bereaved making it more difficult to cope with the loss in their lives. Religion and spirituality seem to be important factors in the reactions of the bereaved people to grief. People who experience high levels of religiosity and spirituality may better manage their stress and have more meaning in life. The aim of this study was to predict the reaction to grief based on the practice of religious beliefs and meaning seeking in the people bereaved due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

 The present study was a descriptive correlational study. The statistical population of this study included those over 18 years old who were living in Sanandaj, Iran in 2021. They had lost a first-degree relative due to the Covid-19 pandemic at the time of the study. Using Tabachenik and Norcross sampling formulas, 106 participants were selected as the sample size by the available sampling method. Standard scales of sense of meaning in life, the practice of religious beliefs, and the mourning experience questionnaire were used to measure the research variables. Data were analyzed by Pearson’s correlation and regression analysis. In this study, all ethical considerations were observed and the authors reported no conflict of interest.

 The results of the regression analysis and multiple correlation coefficient indicated that the variables of religiosity and meaning seeking were significantly associated with grief reactions with a MR value of 55.0 and significance levels of P<0.05 and P<0.001, respectively. Considering the coefficient of determination of 0.31, the predictor variables explained the variance in grief reactions.

 Religion and spirituality help people to better cope with external and internal adversity. Practicing religious beliefs and Seeking Meaning is an important factor in the process of grief and can help the bereaved person cope with their grief and stress.