Defense Date

11-14-2024

Graduation Date

Fall 12-20-2024

Availability

Immediate Access

Submission Type

dissertation

Degree Name

PhD

Department

Nursing

School

School of Nursing

Committee Chair

Rick Zoucha

Committee Member

Khlood Salman

Committee Member

Marilyn McFarland

Keywords

Widow, widowed, widowhood, loss of a spouse, health, well-being, Nigerian-American, culture care, and cultural practices

Abstract

Introduction: Many widowhood cultural practices are detrimental to the health and well-being of widows in Nigeria. Little is known about the experiences of widowhood for Nigerian American women, their cultural practices, and how it affects their health.

Purpose: Understand widowhood cultural practices among Nigerian Americans and how these experiences may affect health and wellbeing.

Methods: The qualitative ethnonursing method was used to collect data from 25 Nigerian American widows. Data were analyzed using NVivo qualitative data manager software guided by Leininger’s four phases of qualitative analysis.

Results: Widowhood cultural practices are modified and undertaken to preserve health and honor the dead husband’s spirit. Widowhood is stigmatized and negatively affect health and well-being. Support and a relationship with God strengthen the widow.

Discussion: Culturally congruent nursing care can address stigma, loneliness, and mental health challenges of Nigerian American widows.

Language

English

Additional Citations

Anuforo P, Zoucha R, Salman K, McFarland MR. Influences of Widowhood Cultural Practices, Values, and Beliefs on the Health and Well-being of Nigerian Women: An Integrative Review. J Transcult Nurs. 2024 Oct 6:10436596241286244. doi: 10.1177/10436596241286244. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39369345.

Available for download on Friday, January 31, 2025

Included in

Nursing Commons

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