Young Single Widow, Dynamics of In-Laws Interference and Coping Mechanisms: Simplicity–Parsimony Approach

Amoo, Emmanuel O. and Adekola, Paul Oluwatomipe and Adesina, E. A and Adekeye, Olujide A and Onayemi, Oluwakemi O. and Gberevbie, Marvellous Aghogho Chidinma (2022) Young Single Widow, Dynamics of In-Laws Interference and Coping Mechanisms: Simplicity–Parsimony Approach. International Journal of Environment Research and Public Health, 19.

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Abstract

The incidence of short marital duration due to the demise of a husband that often exposes young widows to in-laws’ exploitation of the asset of the deceased spouses, without regard for negative health consequences and potential vulnerability to poverty has not been exhaustively investigated, especially in sub-Saharan Africa where 16% of adult women are widows. The study examined the coping mechanisms among the young widow (aged � 40) who have experienced short conjugal relationships (�5 years) and burdensome from in-laws. The research design followed a qualitative approach with the aid of semi-structured in-depth interviews among 13 young widows selected through snowballing and informant-led approaches in the purposively selected communities. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and a thematic approach. The findings, among others, shows the median age of young widow as 29 years. All participants, except one, have faced exploitation from their in-laws over their husbands’ assets. All the participants desired to re-marry in order to: have a father figure for their children, have their own children or have more children. There is an absence of government support, but a few have received support from religious organisations. The author proposed attitudinal-change campaigns targeting the in-laws through accessible media and legislature that could challenge the exploitation of widows and unhealthy widowhood rites.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	young widow; in-laws; intimacy; widowhood rites; re-marry; sexual intimacy; health; widow rights
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology H Social Sciences > HE Transportation and Communications
Divisions:	Faculty of Law, Arts and Social Sciences > School of Social Sciences
Depositing User:	nwokealisi
Date Deposited:	14 Feb 2023 09:46
Last Modified:	15 Feb 2023 14:25
URI:	http://eprints.covenantuniversity.edu.ng/id/eprint/16603

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