Reflecting on the concept of death: A qualitative investigation of the experiences among early childhood education teachers.
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| Title: | Reflecting on the concept of death: A qualitative investigation of the experiences among early childhood education teachers. |
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| Authors: | Koliouli, Flora (AUTHOR), Kouniou, Maria (AUTHOR) |
| Source: | Death Studies. 2026, Vol. 50 Issue 6, p976-987. 12p. |
| Subjects: | School environment, Work, Audiovisual materials, Empathy, Thanatology, Curriculum, Psychology of teachers, Death, Professional practice, Occupational roles, Preschools, Focus groups, Psychological distress, Government policy, Educators, Interviewing, Culture, Teaching methods, Emotions, Psychological adaptation, Thematic analysis, College teacher attitudes, Research methodology, Helplessness (Psychology), Communication, Professional employee training, Experiential learning |
| Geographic Terms: | Greece |
| Abstract: | This study explored preschool educators' experiences regarding the Pedagogy of Death in early childhood settings in Greece. Using reflexive thematic analysis, two superordinate themes were constructed from semi-structured interviews and focus groups with seven kindergarten teachers: psycho-emotional experiences and perceived role of educators. Participants reported dysphoric emotional reactions (fear, shock, pain, helplessness), empathic responses, and reflective emotions when addressing death-related topics. They described a multidimensional role involving acceptance of family beliefs, supporting and protecting children, and coping with death in the classroom. Personal experiences with loss significantly shaped their practices. Participants emphasized normalizing death discussions, using student-initiated opportunities, and creative visual aids. The findings highlight the complexity of addressing death in early education within the Greek cultural context, where religious beliefs, particularly Greek Orthodox views on death and the afterlife, are prominent. The study emphasizes the need for teacher training that integrates personal reflection, practical classroom strategies, and cultural sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
| Copyright of Death Studies is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.) | |
| Database: | Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection |
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