Exploring the relationship between losing a loved one and fearing death
Year: 2010
Type: dissertation
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: The barely-studied relationship between the loss of a loved one and fearing death was examined. The centrality of the loss-event, attachment style and purpose in life were taken into account as possible moderators of this relationship. General anxiety was measured in order to explore the degree to which it accounts for death anxiety. A total of 150 Dutch students, 108 women and 42 men, filled in the questionnaire. No relationship between losing a loved one and\ndeath anxiety was found. However, results indicate a relationship between the centrality of the loss-event and fear of death for those who experienced a loss recently, less than 14 months before. This relationship is not moderated by attachment style or purpose in life. Furthermore, the distinctiveness of death anxiety from general anxiety is demonstrated. The complicated nature of personal loss and death anxiety are stressed, and careful examination of different types of loss and different samples is advised.
Author: Sara Chmoun
Language: English
Subfield: Social Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W58207679