Perception of time perspective in the first year after the loss of a loved one
Main Article Content
Abstract
Background: This study examines the perception of time perspective in individuals who have experienced the loss of a loved one due to military conflict. It explores the disruption of subjective time perception and its psychological implications in the grieving process. The study distinguishes between expected deaths due to illness and sudden losses caused by military actions or other external factors. It further analyses the impact of time perspective imbalance on grief adaptation, based on Philip Zimbardo’s Time Perspective Theory.
Methods: A study was conducted in 2024 among Ukrainians, involving 64 – 63 were women, and one was a man, aged between 22 and 64 years. Statistical methods, including ANOVA, descriptive statistics and comparative analysis, were applied using Jamovi software to determine significant differences in time perception across groups.
Results: Respondents grieving for up to six months showed strong future focus (M=3.74), reflecting emotional ties to shared plans. Those in the 6–12 month period exhibited deep distress with negative past perception but retained positive memories. In the 1–5 year group, both negative and positive past factors (M=3.16) and high future orientation (M=3.48) suggested reminiscence or escapism. After five years, respondents had a balanced time perception with reduced fatalism. Loss type also influenced grief: the highest negative past perception was among those who lost loved ones to suicide (M=3.57) or drugs (M=3.70), while battlefield losses correlated with strong future focus (M=3.59) and the lowest fatalistic present scores (M=2.52).
Conclusion: This pilot study examined the perception of time perspective among individuals who experienced the sudden loss of a loved one during military conflict, identifying significant differences based on the duration and type of loss, with findings suggesting that adaptation over time leads to a more balanced perception of the past, present, and future. Future research should explore how age, family relationships, and attachment to the deceased influence mourners' time perspective in both short- and long-term contexts.
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