The prevalent frameworks for terminal care in social work practice have been developed from concepts of ego psychology and focus on coping and adaptation. This approach provides only a partial understanding of the dying experience as it overlooks the inherent growth potential that can be harnessed within the crisis of dying. Drawing from postmodern epistemology, the author deconstructs the historical background of terminal care in social work to analyze why concepts of ego psychology have come to prevail in this area. A more holistic view is suggested through the exploration of alternative and more integral views of dying that encompass the potential for emotional healing and spiritual growth. Buddhist philosophy, tribal worldviews, and transpersonal perspectives are examined for this purpose.
