The study of the psychosocial effects and coping mechanisms of Black widows in the Mafikeng area (North West Province) following the death of their spouses

Abstract

This study focused on the psychosocial effects and coping mechanisms of black widows in the Mafikeng area following the death of their spouses. A descriptive research design was used in collecting data. A sample of forty-eight black widows aged between twenty-five and seventy years was randomly selected for the purpose of this study. A questionnaire was administered to the sample. This questionnaire contained both open-ended and close-ended questions. Beck's Depression Inventory was also used in the collection of data to assess the level of depression if any. A descriptive statistical analysis of data was used to analyse the collected data. The findings indicated that most black widows experience psychological problems such as loneliness and depression due to withdrawal. There was also an indication that most black widows experienced social problems like being discriminated against and rejection by friends, relatives as well as neighbours due to the stigma associated with widowhood. However, there is an indication that some black widows do experience a positive perception from their employers and have a positive relationship with their in-laws. This study also confirmed that some black widows use inappropriate coping mechanisms such as withdrawal from the societal activities in fear of humiliation in dealing with their widowhood. Some resort to religion as another way of coping with their loss. The majority of older widows considered remarriage as a poor option while younger widows considered remarriage as viable. The grip on widows by traditional rituals is also diminishing especially among young, successful and educated widows. Having undertaken this study the implication is that black widows are mainly stigmatized in the society in which they live. They are even humiliated through restrictions that are put before them. For instance, performance of rituals and customs. Some of those who are employed experience a negative perception from both their employers and their colleagues because of the stigma. However. there still some black widows who still enjoy the moral support of their in-laws, employers and also that of their colleagues.