Grief experience of Nigerian families in the face of the sudden death of a loved one

Abstract

Sudden death of a loved one is a distressing life event for family members causing significant challenges which often affects their grieving experiences. This phenomenological qualitative study explored the grief experience and reactions of Nigeria Muslim and Christian families in the face of a sudden death of a loved one. The primary purpose of this study is to explore the religious and cultural specific influences of bereaved family members on their grieving process. This study consists of eight adult participants living in Nigeria aged between 20 and 60. Data were collected using semi structured interview with participants who have experienced the sudden death of a loved one, how they were affected after the death, the impact of their cultural and religious beliefs and practices in coping with the death and their specific grief reactions in reacting to sudden unexpected death. Using a thematic analysis, common themes reflecting the grief experiences resulted into nine major themes; loss of connection, religious practice and beliefs, support systems, financial challenge, circumstance of the death, unforgettable experience, family conflict, meaning making and counseling. Accordingly, from some of the themes found, the Christian and Muslim family found religion as a beneficial coping ways in helping them adapt to their losses through meaning making, and support systems. However, other than the positive impact of religion, the circumstance of the death, financial challenge, family conflicts, unforgettable experiences and loss of connection was a major challenge for the bereaved family members. The study results provide the need for developing and implementing spiritual care and counseling for bereaved.