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Adolescents' Online Social Networking Following the Death of a Peer

Oklahoma State University

Michael J. Merten

Oklahoma State University, michael.merten{at}okstate.edu

The purpose of this study was to examine how online social networking facilitates adolescent grieving following the sudden death of a peer. Researchers reviewed 20 profiles authored by adolescents who had died between 2005 and 2007 collecting information from commentary posted to the profiles posthumously. Observed themes included adolescent Internet users directing comments to the deceased, posting memorial sentiments, indicators of coping strategies, current events and memories, comments about the act of commenting, cause of death, comments from distal or unknown peers, religious beliefs, and attending the funeral. In addition to prolonging an attachment with the deceased, online social networking also facilitates teenagers' coping in a way that grants unlimited freedom and opportunity to reflect back over their relationship with the deceased.

Key Words: online social networking • Internet • peer death • adolescent grief • coping • adolescent emotions

Journal of Adolescent Research, Vol. 24, No. 1, 67-90 (2009)
DOI: 10.1177/0743558408328440


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