qualitative study of the impact of spousal death on changed parenting practices of Iranian single-parent widows

ABSTRACT

While it is expected, different causes to decision making accept parenting responsibility and parenting style based on the single parenthood occurs as a result death of the spouse, it has not been clearly articulated. Therefore, we explored the parenting experiences of Iranian single-parent widows who keep custody of their children after their spouses die. In this descriptive, exploratory study in-depth interviews were held with 24 Iranian single-parent widows. The data generated were analyzed using the constant comparative method. Preliminary results indicated four main thematic categories [a] development of a paradoxical identity a hopeless widow vs. a hopeful mother, [b] submerging self in custody role vs. staying from widow role, [c] sentimental parenting and, [d] paradoxical evaluation fruitful for children vs. fruitless for self. The results indicate that single-parenting after the death of the spouse is a difficult experience. Sentimental parenting practices, related to maladjustment with spousal death and roles transformation is a risk for the health of widow-single parents, so they need to be supported by health care delivery and social welfare systems to cope with their life after spousal death