Work-life Balance Among Single Mothers in Tanzania: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed at assessing work life balance experiences among single mothers in Tanzania. It uncovers challenges that single women face in quest to balance work and life domains as well as strategies and practices that foster work-life balance. Spillover theory was used to lay a theoretical foundation of this study.

Methods: The study used a qualitative approach that used interviews in collecting primary data from 12 respondents. Thematic analysis was used to analyse collected data.

Findings: Single mothers in Tanzania face significant challenges in balancing work and personal life, including limited time, unpredictable schedules, mental health issues, and career limitations. Key strategies for improving work-life balance include employment leave and job sharing, but these are hindered by unsupportive leadership, lack of legal recognition for single mothers, and organizational constraints.

Originality: The study offers new insights on issues related to single mothers in Tanzania workplace context. Previous studies covered aspects of work-life balance in general without assessing experiences from single mothers.

Practical Implications: The study calls for labor law reforms to address the unique needs of single mothers, such as extended leave and flexible work options. It also emphasizes the importance of empathetic leadership and institutionalized support practices to improve work-life balance for single mothers.