In Canada, 1 in 20 children will experience the death of a parent between Kindergarten and Grade 12, i.e. approximately 1-2 students in each senior high school class. (Canada Census, 1996)  Five to 10 per cent of the U.S. population loses a family member to death each year (we assume it is similar in Canada). Many of these deaths, particularly amongst the teen population are the result of unanticipated violence, including death caused by impaired/speeding drivers. (M.A.D.D. USA, 2000)

In Canada, 5,000 suicides per year are reported; many more are unreported or unconfirmed.  An estimated 7 to 10 close family members and friends are substantially affected by every completed suicide, i.e. 35,000 to 50,000 individuals per year will experience suicide grief. (2006)

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for youth aged 10-24 in Canada (www.suicideinfo.ca Govt. of Canada, 2006).   Bullying, clinical depression, multiple death losses and other serious losses over a short time span, and/or severe feelings of failure, rejection, and inadequacy are seen as primary motivators for suicide threats, attempts, and/or completion.  Marginalized youth are most at risk.

1. To understand the nature of grief, the difference between grief and mourning, and the factors that differentiate grief responses.

2. To learn about normal patterns of grief and mourning of school-aged children and teens, according to developmental stages.

3. To be aware of childhood and teen behaviours that may be associated with complicated mourning and require medical or psychological expertise.

4. To be aware of the direct correlation between the needs of bereaved teens and the appeal of gang membership

5. Identifying issues arising that need to be addressed through school policy and staff awareness

Parents, grandparents, teachers, guidance counsellors, school administrators, youth organization leaders, police, parole officers, youth social workers, youth health professionals, clergy, youth pastoral care workers

Course dates and registration info.