Cross-cultural analysis of Death perception

Abstract: This study aims to gain a deeper understanding of the culturally-specific meanings of death, manifested in personal stories presented in social media. Content analysis is used to analyse 140 posts, in three languages and from authors from 12 national affiliations. Death descriptions often includes a profound sadness, sense of loss and gratitude for the time shared with the deceased, who is considered to be a hero. Traditional mourning rituals blend with new trends, such as celebrations of life and live-streams from the funeral. In the present study the national affiliation of the blogger seems to have only a small effect on the rituals, values and symbols. Individual needs of grieving the dead person must be taken into account when providing social and psychological support.