Young Adults, the Impact and Experience of Commemorative Practices

This study uses qualitative methodology to investigate the self-reported impact commemorative practices have on bereaved young adults. The act of commemoration is defined in the literature review with special emphasis on traditional and non-traditional methods. The difference between traditional and non-traditional as well as intentional and unintentional practices are highlighted with the research and subsequent data collection. Data has been acquired from a convenient sampling of young adults between the ages of 18-35 who have experienced a loss in the last 10 years. Data was collected via individual interviews following a question guide in which both the experience and impact of said commemorative practices was studied. There is value in examining the different ways young adults participate in commemorative practices. This understanding can hopefully emphasize the importance of diverse commemorative networks and practices which can help aid within the field of grief counseling. The results of this study highlight the influence of traditional and non-traditional commemorative practices within bereaved young adults. The definition of traditional is contextual and based on the reporter, but is likewise compared to other traditional and non-traditional practices that will also be examined. This study will also consider the effect said commemorative practices have on daily activities in the lives of the reporters as well as their relationships. Additionally, quotes from the grief interviews are utilized throughout the results section in a unique narrative format as a way to both honor the grief shared throughout this study and to better illustrate the impact of these commemorative practices. Coding and thematic analysis were used to analyze the results. It is hopeful that the results of this research could aid the clinical grieving process by demonstrating the importance of diverse commemorative networks.