Death studies
-
This study explored helping professionals' views on death work competencies. A total of 176 helping professionals were invited to state what the necessary competencies in death work are. Content analysis was conducted. ⋯ Self-competence was further categorized into 3 themes: (a) personal resources, (b) existential coping, and (c) emotional coping. Findings reflect helping professionals' emphasis on the role of self and personal preparation in doing death work. Implications on future death education and training for helping professionals were discussed.