PSYCHO-SOCIAL CHALLENGES FACED BY WORKING WIDOWS IN PAKISTAN

Widowhood is a significant life event that brings about various emotional, social, and economic changes for the woman, who navigates the challenges of grief, loss, and the adjustments required in her roles and responsibilities. The objective of this study was to explore socio psychological and emotional challenges faced by a working widows in Pakistan. For this purpose, a qualitative study was conducted to see how working widows faced different challenges and to analyze the social and cultural factors influence on their mental health. The sample of the study consisted of 12 working widows with age range of 35 to 59 years, who have been facing psycho-social challenges since spouse death. The data was collected through in-depth interviews based on semi-structured questions. Before collection of data a pilot study was conducted in order to polish the questionnaire. Privacy and confidentiality were maintained throughout the process. Thematic analysis was conducted to analyze the results. Participants frequently mentioned the absence of moral and emotional support in their lives. They expressed feelings of loneliness, difficulty in decision-making, and a lack of emotional outlets. Moreover, the nature of moral and emotional support they lack is primarily related to matters of children's upbringing, domestic affairs, and financial responsibilities. The research also uncovers the impact on children's mental health after losing their fathers.