BACK-TO-WORK MOTHERS IN SINGAPORE : COPING AND ADAPTATION ISSUES

Abstract

Mothers in Singapore are re-entering the workforce in increasing numbers. This movement undoubtedly has required adjustments by the mother and her family. This qualitative research study is conducted to examine the nature of these adjustment issues and how the back-to-work mothers and their families cope and adapt when they are confronted with their dual roles and demands. Adopting an ecological perspective, the study looks at these issues relating to the influences of resources in the larger environment on the individual's and family's coping and functioning. The findings indicated that the adjustment issues faced by the mothers and their families had significant impact on the individuals and on family relationships, particularly the parent-child and marital relationships. In addition, pre-preparations and the presence of adequate and stable basic resources were found to be critical for the spouses to cope with the transition. Other issues regarding their work-family realities and pressures, and the implications of these for interventions and social work practices are included in the discussion.