The Loss Lab
Dr. Carrie Traher, Assistant Professor, Thanatology
PURPOSE
The Grief and Loss Research Lab (aka The Loss Lab) provides students with opportunities to critically reflect on thanatological research, to better understand the significance of research in this field, and develop hands-on skills. The Lab primarily focuses on qualitative research and undertakes a variety of projects related to death and non-death losses, as well as the myriad ways that loss affects people at various life stages.
Thanatology is a recent field of study within academia; therefore, the need for solid research and the integration of theory and praxis is highly relevant. The Thanatology program at King’s is well poised to make significant contributions in this area of inquiry given the breadth of courses offered, the highly skilled faculty, and the dedicated students in the program.
LINES OF RESEARCH
Currently, the areas of interest include Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID), bereaved university students, and creative interventions for those who are bereaved. Collectively, participants in The Loss Lab will review current research and identify gaps in the literature to apply, and extend, existing knowledge regarding both theory and clinical application.
ACTIVITIES
The Loss Lab is a collaborative learning space characterized by critical thinking, open mindedness, and the mutual sharing of ideas that benefit each person, and the Lab as a whole.
Activities include discussions of assigned readings, along with a focus on contemporary issues that are relevant to those in the Lab. They can also include direct involvement in research projects, contributing to publications, being a research assistant, or being supervised while completing an honours thesis.
STUDENT INVOLVEMENT
Thanatology students interested in the Loss Lab can contact Dr. Carrie Traher at losslab@kings.uwo.ca.
