Social isolation and health in widowhood: A qualitative study of Nepali widows' experiences

ABSTRACT

Little research exists on social isolation and health among widows despite their marginalization in South Asia. Using a conceptual framework that delineates distinct forms of social support, our results provide a preliminary analysis of the role social support plays in the well-being of Nepali widows. Between 2011 and 2012, we conducted 42 in-depth interviews in the Kathmandu valley and Surkhet district. Low social support was a common theme, principally lacking in the domains of emotional and instrumental support and was described as increasing women's vulnerability to mistreatment and economic insecurity. Policies and programs that foster these types of support may have positive effects on widows' well-being.

Notes

1. A tika is a blessing in the form of a forehead mark with colored powder.

2. A pasni is a celebration of a young child's transition to solid foods. Extended family and community members bring gifts to the family and take part in giving the child their first rice meal.

3. Randi is an extremely derogatory term for widow and signifies a prostitute or whore.