J Korean Acad Nurs.  2007 Dec;37(7):1098-1107.

A Study on the Life Adjustment of Widowed Elderly Women in Korea: A Q-Methodological Approach

• Shin HS

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the types of life adjustment of widowed elderly women in Korea. METHODS: The research design was a Q-Methodological Approach. Thirty selected Q-statements from 32 subjects were classified into a shape of normal distribution using a 7 point scale. The collected data was analyzed using a QUANL PC program. RESULTS: Three types of life adjustment were identified. Type I is the independent type: overcome the reality. Type II is the abandonment type: deny the reality. Type III is the accommodation type: accept the reality. CONCLUSION: The results of the study indicate that different approaches to the quality of life for widowed elderly women in Korea are recommended based on the three types of life adjustment.

Keyword

Adjustment; Elderly; Women

MeSH Terms

*Adaptation, Psychological
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Attitude to Death
Attitude to Health
Dependency (Psychology)
Female
Humans
Korea
Middle Aged
Q-Sort
Quality of Life
Questionnaires
Widowhood/*psychology