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Negotiating sensitivities and grappling with intangibles: experiences from a study of spirituality and funerals

This article discusses the methodological issues encountered in an AHRC funded study conducted between October 2008 and March 2010. The project used qualitative methods to explore the ways in which mourners sought, ascribed and expressed meaning through the funeral and analysed these processes in relation to evidence of religion and a broader spirituality. The research involved case studies of 46 funerals, and 29 interviews with professionals involved in the funeral industry. Each case study comprised: observation of pre-funeral meetings between families and funeral directors and celebrants; observation of the funeral; and a post-funeral focused interview with the bereaved person(s). The article considers ethical and practical factors in conducting research around a sensitive event where participants may be vulnerable. It describes the analysis process of data obtained concerning religious and other beliefs and comments on the value and difficulties of a multidisciplinary approach.