The Grief Song-Writing Process with Bereaved Adolescents

Authors: Dalton, T. A., & Krout, R. E. (2006)

Abstract:

This article describes the development and implemen- tation of the Grief Song-Writing Process (GSWP) with bereaved ad- olescents. First, a thematic analysis was completed of 123 songs pre- viously written by bereaved adolescents in individual music therapy sessions that expressed core concerns regarding the death of their loved one and how they were coping since the death. Second, ex- isting grief models were compared with these song theme areas, and an integrated grief model was developed that includes five identified grief process areas of understanding, feeling, remembering, integrat- ing, and growing. Third, a systematized seven-session group GSWP protocol was developed and implemented, during which adolescents created music and wrote original lyrics to songs that focused on each of the five grief process areas. Details of this protocol are shared, along with five original songs composed for and during the song- writing process.