Widowhood: A Case Study of Three Bihari Women

T
he aim of this interview-based study of three middle-class
widowed-women from Patna (Bihar) is to understand their
emotional state and social circumstances after a sudden de
mise of their respective husband. The present study employed
interview as well as observation methods. Specifically, the
study was designed to explore the widows’ family environ
ment, coping ways, sources of support, hardships, resilience,
etc. Their responses indicate that despite sustained despon
dent mental state, these widowed women somehow adapt to
the situation and gradually become relatively confident and
self-independent. Children, family members, friends, and
parents extend their supports in time of need. They maintain
a close relation with their in-laws despite the less support or
assistance extended by the latter to the former.