Psychological Adjustment to Conjugal Bereavement: Do Social Networks Aid Coping following Spousal Death?

Abstract

This research sought to investigate the role of social networks in coping and adjustment to spousal bereavement. A total of 198 Xhosa-speaking participants, drawn from the rural areas of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa, took part in the study. Quantitative data analyses revealed significant correlations between perceived social support on Social Support Appraisals scale and the anxiety scores on the Beck Depression Inventory-Second Edition and the problem-solving coping strategy scale on the Coping Strategy Indicator. Regression analyses revealed that depression contributed to increased social support appraisals, while anxiety was a significant negative predictor of the participants' experience of perceived social support. The authors highlight the need for bereavement intervention programs in the rural areas to be geared toward psycho-educating the conjugally bereaved individuals, within the socio-cultural framework, to continuously evaluate their support structures and strengthen ties with social networks that render support, instrumental assistance, and advice in times of need.