The Cultural Nature of Mourning In South African Black Families: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This systematic review investigates the cultural nature of mourning among Black South African families. The study focuses on the unique cultural dimensions that shape grieving processes within diverse South African communities. Given the country’s rich tapestry of ethnic groups and religious affiliations, mourning practices vary significantly across regions and social groups. These variations are particularly pronounced in rural areas, where traditional leaders and ancestral customs continue to play a pivotal role in shaping how grief is expressed and managed. To explore these dynamics, the study employed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using three strategic approaches across four major electronic databases—ResearchGate, Google Scholar, Taylor & Francis, and Scopus—covering empirical, peer-reviewed articles published up to 27 September 2024. The findings reveal a wide range of culturally specific mourning rituals, which are deeply embedded in spiritual and communal values. However, the review also uncovers significant challenges faced by individuals, particularly women, who may be compelled to observe rituals that conflict with their personal or religious convictions. These challenges underscore the need for more flexible, inclusive approaches to mourning that honor cultural heritage while safeguarding individual rights. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of how mourning is experienced and regulated in Black South African communities. It advocates for greater respect for cultural diversity in grief expression and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and validating individual mourning practices. Ultimately, it calls for a more compassionate and pluralistic approach to bereavement—one that avoids imposing collective norms and instead acknowledges the personal and cultural complexities of grief.