Terror Management Theory

Abstract

Terror management theory (TMT), based on the works of Ernest Becker, asserts that the fear of death contributes to many aspects of human thought and behavior. According to TMT, people use self-esteem and cultural worldviews to buffer awareness of death. In this short review paper we review fundamental research in TMT, including the findings that after being reminded of death people bolster their cultural worldviews and strive for self-esteem. Cutting-edge research in TMT, including research on intergroup conflict, psychological disorders, religious beliefs, and brain imaging, is discussed. Finally, we review key issues in TMT research going forward. Keywords: terror management; death; self-esteem; culture; existential psychology; worldview defense; threat; anxiety; mortality salience