An Empirical Analysis of the Relationship between Afterlife Beliefs and Grief

Abstract

Three grief-based questionnaires were provided to identify optimistic, pessimistic, strong, and weak BA. It was hypothesized that there would be an association between strong and optimistic BA and more effective coping with grief (H1). Moreover, it was postulated that these individuals were more likely to perceive these beliefs to be helpful (H2), as well as experience further strengthening of their religious/spiritual views (H3). Statistical analyses were conducted, and data revealed that contrary to predictions – holding optimistic beliefs regarding the afterlife was associated with higher grief levels. While strength of belief was non-significant, partial support was found for H2 as bereaved participants with optimistic BA were more likely to indicate that these beliefs were beneficial. Lastly, no significant difference was found between those who believed that loss weakened or strengthened their beliefs in terms of optimistic of pessimistic BA. This investigation was subject to various noteworthy limitations and warrants future research.