Closure

The Rush to End Grief and What it Costs Us

By: Nancy Berns

Narrated by: Catherine Force

When it comes to the end of a relationship, the loss of a loved one, or even a national tragedy, we are often told we need "closure." But while some people do find closure for their pain and grief, many more feel that closure does not exist and believe the notion only encourages false hopes. Sociologist Nancy Berns explores these ideas and their ramifications in her timely book, Closure.

Berns uncovers the various interpretations and contradictory meanings of closure. She identifies six types of "closure talk," revealing closure as a socially constructed concept and a "new emotion. "Berns explores how closure has been applied widely in popular media and how the idea has been appropriated as a political tool and to sell products and services. This book explains how the push for closure - whether we find it helpful, engaging, or enraging - is changing our society.

Honorable Mention from the Sociology of Emotions section of the American Sociological Association, 2012.

©2011 Temple University (P)2014 Redwood Audiobooks

Critic reviews

"This book is a ‘must read' for anyone interested in the grieving process." (Kenneth J. Doka, Professor, The College of New Rochelle, and Senior Consultant, The Hospice Foundation of America)

"Compelling...a breath of fresh air, recommended for both general readers and specialists." ( Library Journal)

"The book is a boon to all grieving persons. Professionally, the book should, also, be richly rewarding to bereavement scholars, sociologists, mental health professionals, politicians, and to businesses in some way tethered to grief and closure." ( Metapsychology)