Experience of Death-Related Trauma in Women: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

Abstract

The trauma related to death is always an intense emotional and psychological experience that tend to shake the stability of life. Through Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), this study explored the experience and expression of trauma related to the death of a close family member in women. A sample of 5 women of age ranging from 22 to 30 years were targeted and information was collected through a semi-structured interview. The superordinate themes emerged as Socio-emotional responses to trauma, and sub-ordinated themes were Stigmatization, Resistance, Emotional Difficulties, Unstable Relationships, Fear of Being Exploited, Economic Difficulties and Social Withdrawal. This study helps to understand reactions to death in the cultural context of trauma counseling and early intervention services.