Approaches for Moving Beyond Abrupt Widowhood: A Case Analysis With One Muslim Thai Woman

Praneed Songwathana1, Patricia Liehr2

  • 1Faculty of Nursing, Prince of Songkla University, Hatyai, Songkhla, Thailand.

This preliminary study aimed to describe approaches used to resolve the health challenge of abrupt widowhood when one's spouse was killed in the socio-political conflict areas in South Thailand. A story theory was used to guide content analysis from an interview of a middle-aged Muslim widow. Four main approaches were identified including accepting support from close friends and family, connecting with her Muslim faith, holding on to concern for her children's well-being, and reaching out to other widows. The findings could be used to guide an appropriate intervention for improving mental health outcomes for Thai widows.

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