Ethnic Differences in Perceptions,Preparations and Rituals Regarding Death in Singapore

Abstract

The Study Of Ethnic Interpretations Of Death Paves The Way For A Deeper Understanding Of The Psychosocial And Behavioral Patterns Of Aging. Using A Qualitative Methodology, multiple long interviews were conducted with forty-five non-institutionalized very old Singaporeans (between 70 to 84 years) regarding their life story, attitudes and beliefs, health, family, and community involvement. The three ethnic groups captured were the Chinese, Malays, and Indians. There were similarities as well as differences across the ethnic group in terms of perceptions and preparations for death. Generally, the majority were more concerned with the manner of death than death itself. In terms of preparation for death, the Chinese had more pragmatic strategies than the Malays and Indians. In their old age, the Malays focused on retribution for past sins while the Indians underscored building of good Karma and spiritual upliftment. Understanding the nuances of ethnocultural perceptions and preparation for death provides added value to counselling for older adults and the terminally ill.

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