In widows' transition, which of the following is true about their social networks?

• A. They often experience disruption of their social networks
• B. They typically gain larger social networks
• C. Their relationships with adult children remain unchanged
• D. Their financial status quickly stabilizes

Answer: (A)

Losing a spouse removes the central social hub that many people rely on for daily interaction, shared activities, and invitations. In widowhood, the circle of family, friends, neighbors, and groups that provides support often gets disrupted. Bereavement, changes in routines, declining mobility or health, and couples socializing together can lead to withdrawal from some activities and shrinkage or reconfiguration of social ties. Over time, networks may reweave themselves around new sources of support—such as adult children, friends, or community groups—but the transition commonly involves disruption rather than immediate growth. The other options don’t fit because gaining larger networks right after a loss isn’t typical, relationships with adult children don’t usually stay exactly the same, and financial stability concerns relate to economic status more than the social connections themselves.