Date Approved
2005
Degree Type
Open Access Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department or School
Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology
Committee Member
Jay Weinstein, PhD, Chair
Committee Member
Barbara Richardson, PhD
Abstract
Research in the study of the fear of death and dying and the study of altruism implies that there is a dynamic relationship between the two fields. Rarely, if ever, has a direct connection been made. This study is an effort to further explore the relationship that exists between the fear of death and dying, altruistic behavior, self-esteem, and perceptions of a common humanity. Through the synthesis of these four key social psychological concepts, a theoretical model was developed and tested.
Through the examination and statistical analysis of quantitative data and the systematic evaluation of interview data, several connections between our measures were made. The fear of death and dying is causally related to some degree to self-esteem and perceptions of a common humanity. Data failed to show a direct relationship between the fear of death and dying and altruistic behavior.
Recommended Citation
Corwin, Jennifer Haskin, "The fear of death and the fear of dying: Possible barriers to altruistic behavior" (2005). Master's Theses and Doctoral Dissertations. 123.
https://commons.emich.edu/theses/123