Economic Independence of Middle-Aged Women in Metro Manila: A Grounded Theory

Abstract

This study generated a substantive theory from the insights gathered from 20 participants, which will examine the stages involved in the process of economic independence: the causal conditions which motivate the participants’ entry to the workforce, the context in which it occurs, the intervening factors influencing the woman’s balancing act and the effects these have on her psychosocial functioning. A total of 20 middle-aged working mothers residing in Metro Manila have participated in the study who have been selected using theoretical sampling. The study is informed by a constructivist worldview, which utilized a qualitative research design through the conduct of in-depth interviews, comprising semi-structured and open-ended questions. The generated theory holds that that economic independence undergoes four distinct stages. The process starts with a woman’s motivations for working, which include her need for achievement, need for financial independence and value for education. This is followed by the contemplation of initial considerations: the nature of the job, the partnership among couples and the age and number of her children. As she carries out what is expected of her at work, she encounters certain external factors which are influential determinants in her achievement of economic independence: the role of technology and the social support one receives from the extended family. When technology is utilized to her advantage and support is received from one’s relatives and house helpers, the mother will most likely achieve economic independence. This will, in turn, result to the development of a more positive self-image, an enhanced selfesteem and feelings of empowerment. Working has also no significant detrimental effect to one’s social functioning, particularly to the quality of relationship she has with her husband and children. This is supported by the narratives of the participants which indicate that despite spending less time with their families, they make sure that they give them quality care. Recommendations were made to conduct a study among rural populations and a comparative study which will delve on the differences experienced by single and married mothers. The methods can also be modified to include the quantitative aspect: establishing correlations, providing statistics and using psychological tests to measure the psychological functioning of the participants. A possible area of study would be its correlation with familial violence and union dissolution.