The Lived Experience of Young Widows and Widowers

A phenomenological study was conducted to better understand the challenges faced by young widows and widowers. Nine young widows and three young widowers (n = 12) participated in a focus group and discussed their experiences after the loss of their spouse. Five major themes emerged from the focus group depicting their challenges: Death Experience; Family Dynamics; Coping; Family and Community Involvement; and Advice. The themes and sub-themes provide direction for family therapists treating young widows and widowers, and areas of future research to better understand and provide services to this vulnerable population.