Dr. Patricia EvansThe Problem
Although there are growing numbers of aging women, there is a dearth of understanding of the midlife transition experiences of women. The silence of midlife voices is particularly relevant with women who are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS).
Purpose of the Study
The purpose of the study was to address the absence of LDS women’s voices in contemporary literature and to uncover unique female experiences related to midlife aging.
Rationale for the Study
Women’s midlife voices must be heard to understand how they experience midlife aging.
Significance of the Study
Women represent a significant proportion of the LDS community. In 2004, the LDS female membership of ages 36–55 was 1,941,000, with a huge projected growth of members reaching midlife in 10 years. The research provides a means to explore their aging experiences.
Research Question
The research addressed the question: How do LDS women experience midlife aging?
Conceptual Framework
The study was conceptualized from a feminist, social constructionist and narrative lens.
Methodology
The qualitative case study design was deemed the most appropriate approach to gain insight into women’s midlife experiences. The self-report methodology combined a self-administered survey (n= 45) and individual interviews (n=10).
Data Collection
Data was obtained from female members of the Women’s Relief Society within a Canadian stake (diocese) of the LDS population.
Findings
The findings suggest a positive transformation over the midlife cycle. The younger cohort experienced physical and emotional symptoms and inner conflict. The older women reported fewer physical and emotional symptoms and more happiness and contentment with their life roles. The findings agree with contemporary research literature.
Discussion
The study validates the capabilities of the qualitative case study approach to combine survey and interview data to reach a larger number of LDS women, to provide in-depth perspectives, and to lead to a greater understanding of the women’s experiences. The study may stimulate further research with aging women or with those of the LDS community.
Social Change Implications
Demographics reflect changes in aging patterns and large numbers of women transcending midlife. Considering the challenges associated with the midlife transition, how to best meet the needs of aging women is a significant social problem. As such, there are implications for society at large, for helping professions such as social work, and for the LDS church. There is also the need for further research with aging women.
Older women contribute highly to society. Let’s value them for their wisdom and experience. We can do this by giving them a podium and a voice.
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Patricia Evans has a B.A. in social developmental studies and a master of social work degree. She earned a Ph.D. in Human Services, specializing in Social Work, from Walden University in 2005. She is a licensed social worker and has worked with various populations in health and nonprofit agencies. Currently, in her private practice in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, she focuses on women’s midlife issues and conducts workshops and lectures on the topic of midlife. An article based on her research, entitled “Midlife Metamorphosis,” is in press for publication in The Qualitative Report. She can be reached at pat.evans@on.aibn.com. |
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