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Flinders University Department of Languages - Modern Greek
Abstract
The following paper is derived from a larger, Psychology Honours thesis conducted by
the author (Georgia Panagiotopoulos) under the supervision of Prof. Mary Luszcz and
Dr Ruth Walker in 2009. Widowhood affects many older women and is often associated
with decreases in psychological and physical health. However, the influence of cultural
background on the well-being of widowed women has been largely overlooked. The
present study compared the widowhood experiences of two, culturally distinct groups
of older women; British and Greek migrants to Australia. Participants were interviewed
and completed questionnaires in either English or Greek. Factors thought to be protective
for the well-being of widows, including continuing bonds to one’s spouse, mourning
rituals, religiosity and social support were measured. Well-being was measured using
three indicators of current adjustment, including self-rated health, and symptoms of
depression and loneliness. Greek widows possessed greater bonds, rituals, and religiosity
than their British counterparts. However, these factors were not associated with
greater well-being, as Greek widows reported worse health and increased symptoms
of depression and loneliness. Further research is required to determine whether older
Greek-Australian widows are more vulnerable to maladjustment following bereavement
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