| Within all cultures, the loss of a loved one through death and the subsequent grief is a difficult process for all people, adults, and children alike. There is a dearth of research on the impact of death on Nigerian children. Couched in family systems theory, this qualitative, phenomenological study was designed to explore the lived experiences of children ages 3-10 years old that lost loved ones to stigmatized death. Sixteen participants, from different ethnic groups, were recruited through purposive sampling from two orphanages and three families in Benin City, Edo state, Nigeria. Data were collected from semi-structured interviewing of 7 -- 10 years old, individual play sessions with 3 -- 6 years old, and observation of all participants in their homes and other settings. Themes emerged around four overarching categories: (a) concept of life and death and the influence on children's grieving process, (b) describing death that carries social stigma and the emotions used in the process, (c) impact on intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships and identifying behaviors that are complicating the grief process for children, and (d) impact of culture. For example, social support is provided by the extended family early on for these grieving Nigerian children. However, the children were often disallowed from mourning because of cultural taboos and silence related to discussing death issues with children. Along with the death of loved ones came secondary losses such as abandonment due to accusations of witchcraft. It is recommended that education begins early in children's developmental years on the subject of death. Furthermore, children's bereavement support groups are needed. |
