Amy BrainerCV

Loss of a Friend

This research 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. People of all genders, cultural backgrounds, and walks of life are warmly welcome.

The length of the interview varies by person. Most take 60-90 minutes. The interview can be by Zoom, phone, or in person at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. Contact me to schedule an interview at your convenience.

*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 information here.

This research is approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) at the University of Michigan. The IRB protocol number is HUM00232414.

If you would like to see the interview questions before deciding to be in the study, you can view them 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.

A weathered utility box on a city sidewalk, hand-painted in large letters with the words “My Friend Died!!!” Smaller handwritten notes beside the words read “maybe they are out of pain,” “talk to them like an imagined friend,” and “So sorry! Be strong” with a heart.
I took the photo above a few weeks after the death of someone close to me.Image description: A weathered utility box on a city sidewalk, hand-painted in large letters with the words “My Friend Died!!!” Smaller handwritten notes beside the words read “maybe they are out of pain,” “talk to them like an imagined friend,” and “So sorry! Be strong” with a heart.