The Absence of Funeral Rites as a Risk Factor for the French Bereaved Population

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic, stringent measures were imposed in numerous countries, including France. These measures significantly disrupted societal practices, particularly mourning and funeral rituals. This study, conducted between June and September 2021 as part of the COVIDEUIL-France research, involved 242 participants, predominantly female (84%) with an average age of 49.64 years. The research aimed to investigate the consequences of the absence of funeral rituals and the adoption of personalized, domestic, and digital alternatives. Using online surveys and psychological tools, including the Traumatic Grief Inventory Self Report Version (TGI-SR), General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28), and Post-traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI), the study found a significant correlation between the lack of traditional practices and grief complications. Despite 21.81% of participants compensating with personal commemorations, digital commemorations were underutilized, raising questions about their effectiveness. The study provides crucial insights, emphasizing the need to address the psychological effects of disrupted mourning practices in France.