Religious and Cultural Practices of Muslims Living in Central Anatolia on Death and Mourning: A Qualitative Study from Turkey

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the cultural practices of society regarding death and mourning. The sample of this qualitative study consisted of 31 adults who presented to a Family Health Center located in two different provincial centers in the Central Anatolia Region of Turkey. The main themes of “optimistic thinking”, “pessimistic thinking” and “acceptance” emerged from the statements of the participants regarding death. It was determined that participants took part in cultural practices such as preparing for a burial and providing comfort to individuals who were about to die. This study sheds light on the cultural and religious practices of Muslim participants in Turkey regarding death and mourning.