Speaking to and theorizing about the dead in a postmodern world: an autoethnographic possibility?

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper to start a conversation on the possibility of future research on afterlife communication in the communication field. Design/methodology/approach The author utilizes autoethnography, a method that blends ethnographic observation with the writing of personal narrative. Findings The author proposes a research agenda for communication scholars to explore the complexity of family stories about postdeath contact. Originality/value The author discusses how utilizing interpersonal communication theories to study relationships with the dead can help researchers understand impact how, when, and if stories of postdeath contact are told.