Discourse analysis is the study of language, text and behaviour that provides a basis to understand the underlying meaning and systems of thought that shape our actions and the words we use.
Zimmerman, C. (2012). Acceptance of dying: A discourse analysis of palliative care literature. Social Science and Medicine, vol. 75, no. 1, pp. 217-224.
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0277953612002341
The study used the method of discourse analysis to examine the use of the term ‘acceptance' of dying in palliative care literature from 1970 to 2001. The aim of the paper was to observe how the term is used in palliative care literature, and how this may relate to broader social structures and practices.
From the study I understood that the acceptance of death and dying is important in palliative care. It is seen as a psychological goal for patients and families, and a unifying aspect of the philosophy of palliative care for health care workers. The adjustment to dying is conceptualised by a number of steps in which the stage of acceptance is the last. It requires psychological input in order to overcome the intrinsic fear and denial of death.
Acceptance is seen as a facilitator in the provision of end-of-life care by health care workers. Patients who accept their situation are easier to manage, not only on a spiritual and psychological level, but also medically and socially. This acceptance affects the patient, family and also the team who care for them enabling a peaceful death.
