BURIAL IN IGBOLAND: ITS PSYCHOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES AND FINANCIAL BURDEN

Abstract

Burial in Igboland has both psychological and financial implications. These implications often leave the bereaved with some challenges prior the burial and afterwards. Financial burden of burial in Igboland can leave the bereaved with sense of inferiority, depression, frustration, angry, ashamed, fearful, tension, pain, mood swings, and risk of anxiety. Consequently, the bereaved may resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as drinking, abusing drugs, or gambling to escape worries. Therefore, this research suggests that communities and religious organizations especially churches should stop financial recouping from the bereaved before accepting to officiate at burial ceremonies. Burial is not an occasion for money-making but rather for showing empathy, social support, and genuine assistance to the bereaved.