Appropriate Bereavement Practice after the Death of a Native American Child

Native Americans and other minorities are statistically overrepresented in the thousands of infants and young children who die every year. Many of these deaths are unpreventable, sudden, and unexpected. Unique rituals and beliefs affect the way Native American families respond to these types of deaths. This paper is a guide for social workers and other caregivers. It examines best practices for culturally competent care and conveying respect for the Native American family. It is vital for social workers to educate, support, and advocate for families of culture in an aware, but not presumptive, style that allows reconciliation between two very different cultures. A case example is provided to illustrate important implications for culturally competent care when a child dies.