#Grieving in a digital world

Abstract

Social media has created space for grieving people to share stories, videos, and photos in a centralized area online. Instead of sharing a story or memory with a few people in person, one can share memories with hundreds, if not thousands, of people via social media. As people increasingly turn to social media to share their accomplishments and joys, they’re also turning to social media to feel confirmed and supported during more challenging times. The evolution of social media has transitioned grieving from a private to a public setting where people in mourning can communicate their feelings about loss and get support. This study focuses on social media platforms as spaces for grieving via the uses and gratification theory and social identity theory. This study specifically aims to showcase how widows use social media and whether it has helped them navigate their grief through the use of personal interviews.