Death and Dying in Young Adults: Reflections from a Surviving Parent

Stephen F Austin State University, Baker Pattillo Student Center, Twilight and Grand Ballrooms

Dying is a process that all must face. No one is left untouched by death. Research reveals that preparation and using hope as a coping strategy can help make the process easier on the dying and bereaved. These strategies are more difficult to employ when the dying person is a young adult in what should be the prime of life. The purpose of this project is to gain a better understanding of how young adults with terminal illness prepare for death so that professionals can better serve that population.