A Scientific Article Observed

In the spirit of the upcoming scientific article we are to write, I have been reading over stories covering science, technology, and health in order to get an understanding of how reporters write about very complex topics without losing their readers in the scientific verbiage. The following article, After a Death, the Pain That Doesn't Go Away by Fran Schumer from the NY Times, is a very likable piece that many people can relate to. The story diagnosis a new level of depression known as complicated grief. Complicated grief is a severe depression that stems from the death of a loved one. The article suggests that complicated grief increases a person's likeliness to cultivate a dependence on drugs and alcohol, to be more likely to commit suicide, or to develop a series of other illnesses (eg. cancer). Those with complicated grief are so closely bound to their loved ones that they become addicted to them. They are pulled apart by their yearning, because they can no longer satisfy their urge for the deceased's contact.

Schumer's article was well-written and well-researched. In fact, she actually kind of exhausted all the professionals on the subject. Towards the end of her piece, she noted that there are only a few experts on the subject (most were already noted in the article). The story was also a very easy read for a scientific article. It helped that the topic was relatable, because many people have experienced the loss of a loved one at point. Those who have suffered a loss understand the pain of those who suffer complicated grief. Someone who suffers from a broken heart is a very catchy story. This article included several sources (all with reputable knowledge on the topic) and two real life stories of people who suffer from complicated grief. Schumer's article was well-done because it was able to be personal and informative at the same time.