Consoling the Bereaved: Exploring How Sympathy Cards Influence What People Say

Abstract

In a sequential mixed methods study, interview data showed that bereaved parents consistently reported “stupid” or “insensitive” things people said that were not helpful when their child died. Subsequently, a discourse analysis of 170 sympathy cards was conducted to assess societal messaging that may influence people’s insensitive words. The findings reflected two distinct time periods in the bereavement process: a time of sadness followed by a time of peace. Possible links to insensitive things people said included: suggestions that the sad time should only last a few days, suggestions of “healing,” religious statements such as the deceased being with God or advice to pray to God, and notions of celebration in some contexts. Very few excerpts were similar to the advice-giving quotes that interviewees considered to be insensitive. Many cards reflected the love and memories inherent in creating a continuing bond with the deceased and achieving peace.

Linguistic Variation in Online Sympathy Expression

“…Cultural factors play a significant role in shaping the expression of condolences. Research by Zunin and Zunin [3] and Calderwood and Alberton [1] has explored how cultural norms and rituals influence the language of condolences. Manning [4] and Klass [3] discuss the importance of understanding cultural variations in mourning practices to ensure respectful and empathetic communication.…”