The Role of Teachers in Grief Management of Secondary

Education Students

Vogiatzaki Eirini1, Aggelaki Anthi2
(1. 2nd Vocational High School of Heraklion & 1st State Vocational Training Institute, Greece;

2. 17th Elementary School Nikaias, Greece)

Abstract: Grief is a reaction to the loss of a loved one. It is a normal, though not easily tolerated, feeling that causes it to be found in the environment and is an expected reaction to loss. Social perceptions portrayed children and adolescents as individuals who did not understand or care much about grief. The reality is different since the most dangerous ages for the possible development of psychopathology in people who have experienced a loss of a parent are 3–5 years of age and adolescence. Today, grieving processes at all ages are now recognized and studied, and school is of great importance. Therefore, it is suggested to incorporate the teaching of the whole human life cycle into school lessons, the relevant education of teachers who often do not know how to behave in the case of their students’ grief, and the organization of school events and rituals within the school. It is considered important not to stop going to school, as this is a link to his own reality. However, there should be flexibility in terms of behavior and performance.

Key words: grief, loss, student, teacher, death