“I’m not afraid to die”: the loss of the fear of death after a near-death experience
Natasha Tassell-Matamua, Nicole Lindsay
January 2, 2016 DOI: 10.1080/13576275.2015.1043252 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Topics | Near-death experience |
| Key points | Argues that the loss of fear of death after NDEs is directly influenced by four combined elements: disembodiment, positive emotions, encounters with deceased or spiritual beings, and a bright otherworldly light. Proposes that these elements together account for the pervasive and instantaneous elimination of death fear, and suggests implications for end-of-life care. |
Abstract
According to terror management theory, fear of death is one of the most profound of human anxieties. Yet, the near-death experience (NDE) and its associated pattern of after-effects represent an intriguing exception to this theory. Studies indicate the loss of the fear of death is an instantaneous and pervasive after-effect of NDEs. Some theorists propose this elimination of death fear could be related to the sense of disembodiment felt during the NDE. In this article, we expand on previous theories by suggesting the combination of four specific elements of the NDE directly influence the loss of the fear of death, including: the sense of disembodiment, positive emotional content, meeting and greeting with deceased others and spiritual beings and exposure to a bright otherworldly light. We conclude by making suggestions for future research endeavours in this area, and their potential beneficial implications for health service delivery, particularly in end-of-life care.