Public commemoration as instrument for mental healing? A mixed method study

Background: Collective commemoration in response to war or disaster is widespread across time and cultures. It is assumed to support those affected by the disruptive event in the process of recovery (Miller, 2012). However, the actual relation- ship between commemoration and mental health is complicated and evidence remains elusive. By apply- ing a scoping review approach, we found both nega- tive and positive effects of commemoration on grief and trauma symptoms, including a wide range of emotions (e.g., Gasparre, 2010; Watkins, 2010). Furthermore, we distinguished different factors to explain the linkage between commemoration of war or disaster and emotional reactions. Objective: In the Netherlands, all Dutch victims of war since World War II are annually commemorated on Remembrance Day. By studying the impact of this event, we aim to further elucidate the potential of commemoration to enhance or retain recovery. Method: Mixed methods were used. As part of an experimental design, participants looked at a segment of the broadcast of Remembrance Day and filled in questionnaires including questions about emotional reactions. Quantitative data was complemented with 12 in-dept interviews. Results: Preliminary results demonstrate significant negative emotional responses to watching the broadcast. Further analyses are direc- ted to determine factors that contribute to emotional change. Factors concerning individual background (such as proximity to a war) as well as response to the commemoration (such as feeling of acknowledge- ment) are taken into account. Conclusion: Outcomes will allow policy makers and social workers to make salient decisions around commemorative events that may benefit fractured communities as well as individuals.