The Needs of Yemeni Widows from a Religious and Psychological Perspective: A Religious-psychological Study

Abstract

This research aims to identify the needs of the widow from a religious perspective and to know the nature of her life in Yemeni society in the context of customs and traditions, as well as to recognize the needs of the widow from a psychological perspective.

Through the study, the researchers highlighted the extent of suffering experienced by Yemeni widows, which is fueled by customs, traditions, and societal culture that deviates from the instructions of Islam that consider the needs of the soul, mind, and body. Islam, the religion of human nature, recognizes the needs of the soul, mind, and body, and emphasizes the rights of individuals and communities to ensure social cohesion, safety, and the attainment of a dignified life for every individual. Furthermore, the researchers discussed the needs of widows from a psychological perspective according to Maslow's hierarchy of needs.

The researchers identified the significance of the study, the reasons for its selection, and its objectives, in addition to the key terms used in this study.

The researchers clarified that the majority of widows experience this suffering due to the deviation from the sound divine methodology and the replacement of customs and traditions.

The study further clarified that alongside the dark images of widows' suffering, there are bright examples of successful widows who rely on their faith in Allah, surrendering and being content with their fate, and having confidence in themselves and their aspirations.

The research has reached several significant conclusions, including:

The state of widowhood does not reduce the value and status of women, as they remain human beings whose values and feelings must be preserved, whether by the widows themselves or by society.

The psychological needs of widows are not different from the needs of any other individual regardless of gender.

The research also provided recommendations, including:

1. Establishing associations and forums specifically dedicated to the care of widowed women, especially elderly ones, that provide recreational opportunities and activities can help them enjoy their lives, overcome feelings of loneliness, and mitigate the psychological and physical ailments that may result from such feelings.


2. Conducting a comparative study that addresses the same subject using a descriptive-analytical approach to compare widows and non-widows.