The Effect of Bereavement upon Death-Related Attitudes and Fears

Abstract

This article reviews and critiques existing theory and research on the issue of how attitudes and fears of death are influenced by recent bereavement. While the identification and validation of distinct stages of grief has demonstrated the powerful impact of death upon survivors, other research suggests that exposure to death does not alter one's attitudes or fears. However, an examination of this literature reveals a number of critical conceptual and methodological flaws. This article attempts to discuss and evaluate these problems, and to suggest possible means of resolution and avenues for future research.