Does End-of-Life Communication With Parents Impact Self-Esteem and Relational Satisfaction?
Abstract (300 words maximum)
According to previous studies, death is taboo and families usually underestimate the dire need to talk about final wishes and wills, among other end-of-life (EoL) related issues (Nickels & Tenzek, 2022; Omilion-Hodges & Swords, 2017, Prince-Paul & DiFranco, 2017). Having EoL conversations allow final wishes to be better satisfied, alleviates needless suffering, and can allow an opportunity for a good death (Tenzek & Depner, 2017; Zadeh et al., 2018). Healthy EoL communication can also impact outcomes for family members and caregivers alike. For example, personal growth allows family members to say goodbye, to connect, to show love, and to explore their own identities (Generous & Keeley, 2022; Keeley, 2007; Keeley & Generous, 2017; Shames & Barton, 2003; Yingling & Keeley, 2007). Additionally, EoL conversations can reduce levels of guilt (Scheinfeld & Lake, 2019) and can contribute to personal growth (Generous & Keeley, 2022) and coping mechanisms following the death of a parent (Generous & Keeley, 2021). Therefore, the aim of this study is to explore the role of final conversations in a survivors’ identity post-parental death. Data is currently being collected via convenience snowball sampling within a large southwestern city and university community. Participants will complete an anonymous online survey using quantitative measures to assess the independent and dependent variables, and to collect demographic information. From the results, we hope to show that having a final conversation that covers the survivor’s identity is not only important, but also leads to higher levels of self-esteem and relational satisfaction. Understanding the role of final conversations in a good death experience for survivors advances the field of end-of-life communication. Moreover, these results may help healthcare practitioners in supporting families experiencing the end of life of their loved ones and help guide them through the bereavement process.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
RCHSS - Communication & Media
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Dr. Emily Scheinfeld
Does End-of-Life Communication With Parents Impact Self-Esteem and Relational Satisfaction?
According to previous studies, death is taboo and families usually underestimate the dire need to talk about final wishes and wills, among other end-of-life (EoL) related issues (Nickels & Tenzek, 2022; Omilion-Hodges & Swords, 2017, Prince-Paul & DiFranco, 2017). Having EoL conversations allow final wishes to be better satisfied, alleviates needless suffering, and can allow an opportunity for a good death (Tenzek & Depner, 2017; Zadeh et al., 2018). Healthy EoL communication can also impact outcomes for family members and caregivers alike. For example, personal growth allows family members to say goodbye, to connect, to show love, and to explore their own identities (Generous & Keeley, 2022; Keeley, 2007; Keeley & Generous, 2017; Shames & Barton, 2003; Yingling & Keeley, 2007). Additionally, EoL conversations can reduce levels of guilt (Scheinfeld & Lake, 2019) and can contribute to personal growth (Generous & Keeley, 2022) and coping mechanisms following the death of a parent (Generous & Keeley, 2021). Therefore, the aim of this study is to explore the role of final conversations in a survivors’ identity post-parental death. Data is currently being collected via convenience snowball sampling within a large southwestern city and university community. Participants will complete an anonymous online survey using quantitative measures to assess the independent and dependent variables, and to collect demographic information. From the results, we hope to show that having a final conversation that covers the survivor’s identity is not only important, but also leads to higher levels of self-esteem and relational satisfaction. Understanding the role of final conversations in a good death experience for survivors advances the field of end-of-life communication. Moreover, these results may help healthcare practitioners in supporting families experiencing the end of life of their loved ones and help guide them through the bereavement process.