Accession Number:

ADA243469

Title:

Near-Death Experiences: An Exploration of Perceived Responses, Effects of Interventions, and Impact

Descriptive Note:

Master's thesis,

Corporate Author:

AIR FORCE INST OF TECH WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB OH

Personal Author(s):

• Yuill, LaVone E.

Report Date:

1991-01-01

Pagination or Media Count:

183.0

Abstract:

This study explored near-death experience NDE survivors perceptions and communication in the disclosure of NDEs to health care professionals and significant others, interventions encountered, and effects of those actions. Eight adults NDErs, selected through network sampling, were interviewed. Their NDEs had occurred during diverse circumstances including near-drowning, miscarriage, routine surgery, drug overdose, cardiac arrest, and a motor vehicle accident. Content analysis was used to describe the interactions from the experiments perspective. A dynamic communication process emerged as central to disclosure about NDEs. Study subjects identified several barriers to disclosure. Actions that were most helpful included listening, showing interest, offering opportunities for disclosure, and providing information and confirmation. Negative actions and their impacts included ignoring or refusal to listen, minimizing the experience, discounting, and perceived to lack knowledge of the phenomenon and to appear afraid, disinterested, or too look busy to talk.

Descriptors:

• *NETWORKS
• BARRIERS
• SAMPLING
• COMMUNICATION AND RADIO SYSTEMS
• MEDICAL SERVICES
• DRUG OVERDOSE
• SURGERY
• PERCEPTION
• ADULTS
• MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENTS
• CARDIAC ARREST
• DYNAMICS
• SURVIVAL(PERSONNEL)

Subject Categories:

• Psychology

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE