The way a person copes with the death of a loved one may be influenced by many factors, including personality, family relationships, previous death experiences, ethnicity and culture. What about gender? Does being a man or women [sic] affect our grieving process? Much research has noted that gender contributes to communication differences that men and women exhibit. This research studies whether those communication differences carry through to the grieving process. It examines how gender affects the communication behaviors exhibited during bereavement.

Grieving is a significant part of life. Perhaps if we better understand why people grieve the way they do, society may be tolerant and sensitive to each other's needs during this time. By understanding communication difference we may strengthen our interpersonal relationships with those closest to us. The may help bear the burden of grief during bereavement and maintain support systems during times of crisis. This research examines the communication behaviors exhibited by men and women during the grieving period. It looks at the differences and similarities that men and women communicate. It also studies whether traditional gender role stereotypes impact men [sic] and women's communication during the grieving process.