Analysis of Effects of Cultural Challenges Affecting the Wellbeing of Widowers: A Case of Selected Churches in Kakamega County, Kenya

Abstract

The loss of a wife is hugely a distressing experience presenting itself in form of tormenting unfriendly cultural challenges. The widowers experience anger, shock, denial, stress and loneliness affecting their wellness. An expression of these emotions is categorized as a weakness on their part. The purpose of this research was to analyze the effects of cultural challenges on the wellbeing of widowers for selected church congregations in Kakamega County. The target population was all widowers in Kakamega County. The source of data in this research was primary where data was collected using questionnaires from a sample of widowers in selected church congregations in Kakamega County. The study employed sample survey of data collection. Non-probability method of sampling was used. Those who volunteered formed the sample. Data collected was analyzed using Chi-squares to test the degree of relationship between variables of study and wellbeing of widowers. The results revealed that cultural challenges affected widowers’ wellness and their coping to new life. This study would help church leaders to develop programs to reduce stigma and enhance wellness among widowers.