The Vulnerability of those Grieving the Death of a Loved One: Implications for Public Policy

James W. Gentry, Patricia F. Kennedy, Katherine Paul, Ronald Paul Hill

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

The death of a loved one causes a deterioration in decision-making skills at a time when new decision roles may be required and financial resources suddenly constricted or increased. The authors investigate this phenomenon by studying grievers’ interfaces with the marketplace to uncover how rituals help grievers cope with their desire to avoid decision making. The authors interview survivors and persons who interact with grievers on a regular basis. Although most of the transactions discussed were ethical and honest, there were some cases of insensitivity and overcharging or mischarging. The authors note that underlying the post-death transactions was the grievers’ desire to withdraw from them, which indicates their reduced awareness of what transpired during the transactions. They conclude with recommendations for service providers and an appeal for broadened legislation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)128-142
Number of pages15
JournalJournal of Public Policy and Marketing
Volume14
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 1995

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Business and International Management
  • Economics and Econometrics
  • Marketing

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