Knowledge and attitudes concerning near-death experiences and attitudes toward death

grantor: University of TorontoThe dramatic attitude changes experienced by individuals reporting near-death experiences have been widely acknowledged in professional publications and in the lay media. What is not known, however, is whether individuals who merely read or hear about such experiences are impacted significantly. This study investigated the relationship between knowledge and attitudes concerning near-death experiences and attitudes toward death in a community sample. All of the findings are consistent with the theory that people interpret NDE material in a way that may confirm and strengthen, but does not radically change, their own established meanings of life and death. It was argued that NDEs are likely to have a continued impact on the institutions, beliefs, and practices of North American society given the likelihood of continued media attention and continued receptivity by the general public. A recommendation was made that all health care and counselling professionals dealing with issues of death receive instruction regarding NDEs.M.Sc