Istanbul Gelisim University Faculty of Health Sciences: Monthly Events and News Bulletin (Volume: 3, Issue: 30, June 2023)

Abstract

Do not lie to children while talking about 'death'!

The concept of death is very difficult for many people to talk about, understand and accept. When it comes to children,dealing with and making sense of this situation leads to an even more difficult process. Child and Adolescent PsychiatristAsst. Prof. Deniz YILDIZ who stated that children's perceptions and understandings of the concept of death differ accordingto their developmental level, also added death should be explained to the child in simple language, without lying, and that thedeceased will not come back anymore. Death is a difficult reality for both children and adults to accept. Adults may think that this is a situation that should behidden from children, sometimes for their own anxieties and sometimes to protect children from the traumatic effects ofdeath. Children need explanations and help from adults they trust to cope with this difficult situation. Child and AdolescentPsychiatrist Asst. Prof. Deniz YILDIZ from Istanbul Gelisim University (IGU), Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of ChildDevelopment, stated children can overcome the grieving process in a healthier way by making honest and sincere statementsto them according to their developmental levels.