A comparison of coping strategies of African American and Caucasian widows

This study, based on in-depth qualitative interviews with three Caucasian widows and four African-American widows, describes and compares the women's selection of coping strategies to deal with problems occurring after the death of their husbands. Results of this investigation suggest more similarities than differences in coping strategies adopted to deal with loneliness, difficulties with children, health issues, loss of task support, and the use of social support networks as a coping mechanism. Although the husbands' death was devastating, personal growth experiences were positive results of the loss. This study also suggests implications for professionals working with both Black and white widows.