[The subjective experience of contact with the deceased or necrophany: a widespread and little-known phenomenon]
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View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Visions of contact with the deceased (VSCD) are common in grief, offering comfort through sensory experiences like sight or sound. This universal phenomenon, also called necrophany, is often misunderstood by the public and medical professionals.
Area Of Science
- Psychology
- Grief Studies
- Phenomenology
Context
- Subjective experiences of contact with the deceased (VSCD) are frequently reported by individuals experiencing grief.
- These phenomena, often spontaneous and direct, are considered universal and timeless.
- VSCD can manifest through various sensory modalities, including visual, auditory, olfactory, and tactile perceptions.
Purpose
- To introduce the phenomenon of VSCD, also known as necrophany.
- To raise awareness among the general public and healthcare professionals about this common yet under-recognized aspect of grief.
- To provide a foundational understanding of the nature and characteristics of VSCD.
Summary
- Visions of contact with the deceased (VSCD) involve direct, subjective sensory experiences reported by grieving individuals.
- This phenomenon, encompassing visual, auditory, olfactory, or tactile perceptions, is a universal aspect of mourning.
- Despite its prevalence, VSCD (necrophany) remains largely unknown to the public and medical community.
Impact
- Increases awareness of a common but under-recognized grief experience.
- Provides a framework for understanding sensory manifestations during mourning.
- Encourages open discussion and reduces stigma surrounding VSCD.
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