ALEXITHYMIA AMONG DIVORCED INDIVIDUALS IN PAKISTAN: A QUALITATIVE APPROACH

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore insights and experiences of alexithymia and emotional vulnerability in divorced people in the context of sociocultural environment of Pakistan with qualitative research method. Purposive sampling was used. The study used semi-structured interviews to collect data from 15 divorced individuals aged 25-50 years, while open-ended questionnaires were completed by an additional 10 divorced individuals. A thematic analysis was conducted on the data, which yielded the following themes: Understanding alexithymia, Emotional numbing and suppression, Cultural and religious beliefs relating to emotional expression, Effect on post-divorce adjustment, Social stigma and isolation, Positive effects of emotional literacy, and Difficulty accessing help. Results indicated that social, religious and cultural factors are important factors affecting divorced persons' experience of emotional vulnerability and alexithymia. Notably, alexithymia was identified as a factor that exacerbates depression, anxiety, stress and problems in re-building life after divorce. However, social factors such as stigma, family pressures and ‘Sabar' culture, were acknowledged as significant obstacles to emotional processing. The study draws the conclusion that emotionally literate and culturally sensitive interventions can help recovery, but in such a way that takes into account the social environment. Future studies will be aimed at examining alexithymia across varying stages of post-divorce and across time to understand the changing role. This exploratory study gives basic bits of information about alexithymia in the Pakistani divorced population and sets the groundwork for further research on the broader implications of alexithymia.