Persistence of Attitude Changes After Near-Death Experiences

Abstract

The aim of this study was to compare attitude changes reported by people who described near-death experiences (NDEs) at two periods two decades apart, to ascertain whether the attitude changes persisted over time. Participants completed the Life Changes Inventory (LCI) upon entry into the study and again two decades later, and the NDE Scale to quantify depth of the experience. Sixtythree participants (mean age at entry into study, 46 ± 10 years) had scores on the NDE Scale typical of other near-death experiencers. Scores on the LCI showed significant changes in attitudes toward life and death both on entry into the study and two decades later. LCI scores showed no significant change over that period, nor was there a significant correlation between change in LCI scores and time elapsed between the two administrations. NDEs appear to be unusual in the long-term persistence of attitude changes.

Near-Death Experiences and Sleep Disturbance

“…Furthermore, the NDE group had significantly higher posttraumatic growth scores than other groups, suggesting enduring positive psychological change—findings that accord with a large body of research describing the beneficial and transformative effects of NDEs ( e.g. , Greyson, 2022; Van Lommel et al, 2001). These findings cast further doubt on claims that SSM is related to psychological distress or dysfunction (Castelnovo et al, 2021; Harvey and Tang, 2012).…”

“…Near-death experiencers have described not just reduced sleep but a decreased need for sleep (Lindsay and Tassell-Matamua, 2020), perhaps associated with the oft reported renewed energy and zest for life (Greyson, 2022; van Lommel et al, 2001). Thus, although objective sleep duration does not appear to differ between groups, it may be possible that revised perceptions of the function and importance of sleep may affect subjective estimations.…”

“…Near-death experiences are often followed by pronounced and pervasive personality changes and can catalyze major life transitions. This is reflected in a consistent pattern of positive sequelae, including reduced fear of death and greater appreciation for life; enhanced confidence and self-esteem; heightened spirituality, decreased materialism, greater concern, acceptance, and sense of compassion for others (e.g., Greyson, 2003;2022;Groth-Marnat and Summers, 1998;Khanna and Greyson, 2015;Noyes et al, 2009;Tassell-Matamua and Lindsay, 2016;van Lommel et al, 2001). Positive aftereffects typically persist over many years (Greyson 2007(Greyson , 2022van Lommel et al, 2001) and appear to stem from the subjective characteristics of NDEs rather than mere proximity to death.…”

“…, Greyson, 2003; 2007; 2022; Groth-Marnat and Summers, 1998; Khanna and Greyson, 2015; Noyes et al, 2009; Tassell-Matamua and Lindsay, 2016; van Lommel et al, 2001). Positive aftereffects typically persist over many years (Greyson 2007, 2022; van Lommel et al, 2001) and appear to stem from the subjective characteristics of NDEs rather than mere proximity to death. Experiencers consistently score higher on measures of positive life change and posttraumatic growth compared with those who have also experienced a near-death event, but without NDE, representing an atypical and somewhat paradoxical response to trauma (Greyson, 2001; Khanna and Greyson, 2015; Lindsay and Tassell-Matamua, 2020; van Lommel et al, 2001).…”

Ayahuasca-induced personal death experiences: prevalence, characteristics, and impact on attitudes toward death, life, and the environment

“…Specifically, we focused on assessing the participants’ self-reported ability to cope with distressing situations, as well as their values in life (dependent variables). We hypothesized that similar to findings from NDE studies ( 38 , 39 , 72 – 75 ), APDs would be associated with an enhanced ability to cope with distressing life situations and increased life values and meaning.…”