This study explores two forms of loss: (1) a breakup with a friend and (2) the death of a friend. The purpose of the study is to understand and affirm the significance of losing a friend at any stage of life.
Anyone 18 or older* who has experienced a friend breakup or death is eligible to participate. The breakup or death can be recent or in the past. Adults of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, and walks of life are warmly welcome.
You can be in the study in one of two ways:
- Tell your story in a Zoom interview.
Follow this link to schedule a Zoom interview at your convenience. - Tell your story in person.
Contact me to schedule an in person interview. If you are in the Detroit metro area, in person interviews are available weekly at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. If you are in another location, we will discuss in person interview options based on my ability to travel to you.
*A note to kids and teens: Your experiences matter too. Universities require researchers to have special permission to interview kids and teens to ensure that you are protected. I do not currently have this permission. If I expand the study in the future to include people under 18, I will post that info here.
This study has been approved by the Institutional Review Board at the University of Michigan. Participation in the study is confidential. You will have a pseudonym and no information that could be used to identify you will be shared.
If you would like to preview the interview questions, you can do so here. There is no need to plan ahead; you can simply show up and speak from your heart. Every interview will be unique as we reorder, add, and adjust questions to fit your personal story. I welcome you to take the interview in your own direction.
I took the photo above while traveling a few weeks after the death of someone very close to me.