Investigating Patterns of Social Support Use by Widowers During Bereavement

Abstract

This study examined the patterns of social support available to widowers during early and late bereavement. It used a social integration framework to assess the levels of social support, social interactions, and sources of support available during bereavement. The analysis included 100 early bereaved widowers and 100 late bereaved widowers from a cross-sectional study on widowerhood among older men. Results indicated widowers from late bereavement received more instrumental and emotional support from family, friends, and neighbors than early bereaved widowers. Similarly, perceived support from friends during an emergency was greater for late bereaved widowers. While social participation in church activities was greater during early bereavement, a high percentage of these widowers indicated not having support when depressed (77%). These findings underscore the importance of emphasizing early intervention during widowerhood to prevent isolation and other negative effects of widowerhood.