CAGAYAN STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES

SOLO PARENTING JOURNEYS: EXPLORING THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF

GENERATION Z SINGLE PARENT-STUDENT MOTHERS

A Thesis Presented to the Faculty of the

College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Cagayan State University

Carig Campus,

Tuguegarao City

In Partial Fulfillment of the

Requirements for the Degree

Bachelor of Arts in Communication

by

Ericka Janine B. dela Cruz

2023-2024
CAGAYAN STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES

BACHELOR OF ARTS IN COMMUNICATION JULY 2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TITLE PAGE …………………………………………………………………………………....

TABLE OF CONTENTS ……………………………………………………………………….

CHAPTER 1: THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND………………………………

Introduction …………………………………………………………………………………….
Statement of the Problem ………………………………………………………………………
Significance of the Study .……………………………………………………………………...
Scope and Delimitation ………………………………………………………………………...
Definition of Terms …………………………………………………………………………….
Theoretical Framework ………………………………………………………………………...

CHAPTER 2: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES ……………….

Experiences of Single Mothers…………………………………………………………………………
Perceptions of Single Mothers….………………………………………………………………
Coping Mechanism...…………………………………………………………………………….

CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY …………………………………………..

Research Design………………………………………………………………………………..
Locale of the Study …………………………………………………………………………….
Participants and Research Sampling……………………………………………………………
Research Instrument……………………………………………………………………………
Data Gathering Procedure ……………………………………………………………………..
Data Analysis ………………………………………………………………………………….
CAGAYAN STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES

BACHELOR OF ARTS IN COMMUNICATION JULY 2023

Chapter 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

Single parenting is a prevalent issue worldwide, and it poses numerous challenges for

individuals who find themselves raising children independently after separation from their partners.

The American Psychological Association (APA, 2019) recognizes the diverse dynamics of single-

parent families, which can include mothers, fathers, or even grandparents taking on the role of raising

children. However, societal perspectives often undermine the value of single parents, diminishing

their recognition and sense of purpose within their households. This issue persists across various

countries, including the Philippines.

In the Philippines, the World Health Organization (WHO, 2020) reports approximately 15

million single parents, with women comprising 95% or over 14 million of them. Despite being a

predominantly conservative country, the Philippines struggles to challenge the societal perspectives

that undermine the value of single parents. These perspectives diminish the recognition of the efforts

and hardships faced by solo parents, resulting in a diminished sense of purpose and responsibility

within their households. Single parenting, especially for single mothers, presents unique challenges as

they must balance the roles of two individuals while simultaneously raising children and managing

the household. These challenges significantly shape the lived experiences of solo parents and

influence various factors that affect their way of life.

One of the primary causes of single parenting is teenage pregnancy, which affects 5.99% of

the Filipino population, making it the second-highest incidence in Southeast Asia, according to Save

the Children's Global Childhood Study (2019). The Philippine Statistical Authority (PSA) reported in

2017 that approximately 538 babies are born daily to teenage mothers in the country. The

ramifications of teenage pregnancy extend beyond individual lives and contribute to the growing
population of adolescents facing this situation. Single adolescent mothers often experience mental

distress, face challenges in their relationships and education, and may become economically

dependent on their parents or government assistance (Sibanda & Mudhovozi, 2012). Single parents,

particularly solo parents who are raising their children independently after separation from their

partners, face unique challenges in managing their households and supporting their child's

development. These challenges are further compounded by societal perspectives that undervalue their

worth and contribute to a diminished sense of purpose and recognition within their households.

Despite being predominantly conservative, the Philippines grapples with changing these

societal perceptions and providing adequate support for single parents. Teenage pregnancy is a

significant factor contributing to single parenthood, with the country experiencing a high incidence in

Southeast Asia. The consequences of teenage pregnancy, such as mental distress, disrupted

relationships and education, and economic dependency, impact the lives of single adolescent mothers.

Addressing the social stigmatization and providing comprehensive support systems to empower single

parents and ensure their well-being is crucial. By recognizing their resilience and contributions,

society can foster an inclusive environment that values the efforts and challenges faced by single

parents, ultimately promoting their overall welfare and that of their children.

Although research has addressed the challenges faced by single parents and the consequences

of teenage pregnancy, there is a lack of specific studies focusing on the experiences of Generation Z

solo-parent student mothers in the context of Allacapan, Cagayan. Existing literature often neglects

the unique challenges faced by this particular group, including the complexities of managing

academic responsibilities while raising a child and maintaining a household. By addressing this gap in

the literature, the proposed study aims to shed light on the experiences, challenges, and coping

mechanisms of Generation Z solo-parent student mothers in Allacapan, Cagayan. This study will also

determine their challenges in their responsibility and coping mechanisms. The findings will provide a

basis for formulating policies and programs that empower Generation Z solo-parent student mothers,

promote their overall well-being, and enhance their ability to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.
Statement of the Problem

This study aims to determine the lived experiences of generation z solo parent-mothers.

Specifically, it sought to answer the following questions:

1. What are the experiences of Generation Z single parent-student mothers in managing the dual

roles of being a parent and a student?

2. What are the participants’ perceptions of being generation z single parent-student mothers?

3. What coping mechanisms, strategies, and negotiation approaches do single parent-student

mothers employ to effectively manage their responsibilities as parents and students while

navigating societal expectations and maintaining their academic progress?

Significance of the Study

This research will significantly benefit the following:

Students: The study can provide insights into the potential impacts on the academic performance,

social interactions, and emotional well-being of children raised by Generation Z solo parent-mothers.

This knowledge can inform interventions and support services aimed at promoting the educational

success and overall well-being of these students.

Mothers: The research findings can be used as evidence to advocate for policy changes and

improvements in support systems for Generation Z solo parent-mothers. It can help raise awareness

about their unique needs, promote recognition of their efforts, and challenge societal expectations and

stigmas surrounding single parenting. This can lead to the development of comprehensive support

services, including counseling, financial aid, and community resources, that empower solo parent-

mothers and enhance their well-being.

School Administration: The study's findings can benefit school administrations by providing insights

into the specific needs of Generation Z solo parent-mothers and their children. This knowledge can

inform the development of policies, programs, and support structures within schools. Schools can

implement targeted resources such as childcare support, flexible scheduling, and academic assistance
to create a supportive environment that promotes the academic success and overall well-being of

students from solo-parent households.

Teens: Although indirectly impacted, the study can shed light on the experiences of teenagers who

are raised by Generation Z solo parent-mothers. Understanding the challenges and coping

mechanisms of these mothers can help identify potential stressors and issues that may affect teenagers'

educational attainment, social relationships, and emotional development. The findings can inform the

implementation of interventions and support services aimed at promoting resilience, mental health,

and academic success among teens from solo parent households.

Future Researchers: The study contributes to the existing body of research on solo parenting and

Generation Z by providing a deeper understanding of the experiences of solo parent-mothers. The

findings can serve as a foundation for future researchers to build upon, exploring related topics such

as the long-term effects on children's development, the effectiveness of support interventions, or the

intersectionality of solo parenting with other socio-demographic factors. The study can inspire further

research and encourage the development of evidence-based strategies to support solo parent-mothers

and their families.

Scope and Delimitation

The main objectives of this study is to describe and understand the experiences, challenges

and coping mechanisms of student-single moms in Allacapan, Cagayan.

The study will be limited to Allacapan, Cagayan, with 10 generation z single parent-mothers

as participants of this study. The study will include a small sample size of 10 Generation Z single

parent-mothers residing in Allacapan, Cagayan. Participants must be currently enrolled as students

and willing to share their experiences, challenges, and coping mechanisms. The study aims to explore

and understand the unique perspectives of student-single moms within the local context. Specific

demographic details and additional information about the participants will be determined based on

their individual characteristics and accessibility for data collection.

 Definition of Terms

To provide clear and better understanding of the research study, the following terms will be

defined operationally:

Solo parent - Refers to an individual, typically a mother or father, who is responsible for raising and

caring for their child or children without the presence or support of a spouse or partner.

Generation Z - Refers to the cohort of individuals born roughly between the mid-1990s and early

2010s, characterized as the first generation to grow up in the digital age with widespread access to

technology and social media.

Lived experiences - Pertains to the unique and subjective encounters, perceptions, and interactions an

individual has throughout their life, shaping their perspectives, values, and understanding of the

world.

Single mothers - Women who are solely responsible for raising their children without a spouse or

partner, taking on parenting and financial roles in the household.

Teenage pregnancy - Refers to the occurrence of pregnancy in females who are under the age of 20,

typically during their adolescent years.

Student-mothers - Women who simultaneously fulfill the role of being a student, pursuing their

educational goals, while also being mothers, balancing the responsibilities of childcare and academics.

Theoretical Framework

This study is anchored on Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach. IPA

focuses on understanding individuals' lived experiences and the meanings they attribute to those

experiences. It aims to explore participants' subjective perspectives and interpretations, allowing for

an in-depth examination of their unique experiences.

In analyzing the findings of the study using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA),

key concepts such as bracketing, horizontalization, and essential themes can be applied. Bracketing
involves suspending assumptions and biases to engage with participants' experiences in an unbiased

manner. Horizontalization examines shared themes and patterns across participants, understanding the

intersection of factors shaping their experiences as student-single moms. Essential themes emerge,

representing core aspects and meanings, capturing challenges, coping mechanisms, and negotiations

with societal expectations. These themes deepen understanding of subjective realities and highlight

resilience and well-being factors among participants.

By applying IPA, the study can delve into the rich and complex experiences of student-single

moms, providing a detailed and nuanced exploration of their challenges and coping mechanisms. The

analysis will emphasize the unique aspects of their experiences, shedding light on the subjective

meanings they attribute to their roles as students and single parents. Ultimately, the use of IPA will

allow for a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the lived experiences of student-single

moms in Allacapan, Cagayan.

 CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Lived Experiences and Challenges of Gen Z Solo Parent

The Generation Z cohort, born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, has come of age in a

rapidly changing world. Within this generation, a group of single-parent student-mothers faces

challenges as they handle the demands of parenthood and pursue their educational goals.

There are many experiences and challenges faced by solo parents in the Philippines. These

challenges include economic, emotional, and social difficulties while raising their children,

specifically the financial struggles, emotional stress, and societal perceptions solo parents have to

steer. Therefore, there is a need for social support and government policies that address the unique

circumstances of solo parents (Horton, 2017). Comprehensive support systems and interventions are

needed to assist solo parents in effectively managing their responsibilities (Casuat & Festijo, 2019).

Furthermore, solo mothers used both problem-focused and emotion-focused coping strategies,

but the nature of the problem dictates the strategy to be employed. Solo mothers make sure to look

after themselves to be able to take care of their children in the future. Given the reality of the struggles

of solo parenting, solo mothers as a sector must be provided with support programs and policies by

the government to strengthen their stand to raise their children well (Del Mundo et al., 2019).

Generation Z single-parent student-mothers in the Philippines embody the spirit of

determination, resilience, and ambition. They face formidable challenges as they strive to fulfill their

educational aspirations while raising their children single-handedly. Furthermore, the study of

Mangeli, Rayyani, Cheraghi, and Tirgari (2017) also discussed the challenges encountered by the Gen

Z solo parent mothers. The findings of their study exposed that adolescent mothers encountered many

physical, emotional, psychological, and social challenges. They added that it is practical that special

consideration and maintenance support is made accessible to them. They also emphasized that an

inclusive understanding of the challenges met by solo parent-adolescent mothers will help develop

appropriate guidelines and strategies.

 Single student-parent was forced on some occasions to choose between attending school and

family events and being present at moments that would ensure optimal outcomes in both competing

identities. Student mothers also experienced shaming by their instructors in front of their classmates

for having to bring a child to class or castigated them for bringing a child to an inappropriate forum in

which content was not perceived as child-suitable. Also, they resent being exhorted to choose between

being a parent and being a student, when, in their opinion, they were forced to undertake both roles

concurrently without sufficient support to engage in either role (Vyskocil, 2018).

Generation Z single-parent student-mothers in the Philippines face significant challenges as

they pursue education while raising their children. These challenges are multifaceted and can

significantly impact their lives. Understanding these challenges is crucial for creating effective

support systems and empowering these young women to overcome them.

Perceptions of Single Mothers

Families are fundamental building blocks of society, providing a crucial foundation for

communication and socialization. Within families, parents play a pivotal role in shaping societal

expectations and nurturing their children at every stage of life. However, single parenting can lead to

a reduction in the warmth and affection children receive, ultimately impacting their overall well-being

and development.

Single-parent families encompass households where a parent resides with dependent children

without a spouse or partner, alone or in an enormous household—the latter half of the 20th century

witnessed a rapid and significant increase in single-parent families. Some argue that this shift

indicates a breakdown of the traditional family structure, consisting of a married couple living with

their children and that it adversely affects children, families, and communities (Popenoe, 1996,

"Single-Parent Families").

The role of families in shaping children's development is significant, yet a considerable

proportion of children in the industrialized world, around 16%, reside in single-parent households,
predominantly led by single mothers. While motherhood is a cherished experience, it can present

challenges when raising a special-needs child without the support of a spouse or partner.

Presently, an estimated 13.9 to 14 million Filipinos face the challenges of being single

parents, striving to support their families and raise their children independently. According to the

National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB), around three million children reside in single-parent

homes in the Philippines. These homes may consist of children with single parents, widows, children

of refugees, or children of foreign employees (Rainbows & Butterflies, 2015).

In the Philippines, the definition of Filipino families has expanded to encompass non-

traditional family structures, such as single-parent households, childless couples, cohabiting couples,

same-sex parents, and families with reversed roles. These evolving definitions reflect Philippine

society's changing demands, driven by economic, social, and political issues, technological

advancements, and migration (Tarroja, 2010).

The increasing number of Generation Z single-parent mothers is alarming, as a growing

number of younger individuals within this cohort are becoming mothers at a young age. The issue of

adolescent pregnancy is not a new problem, particularly in countries like the Philippines. This

situation is alarming because more and younger girls are experiencing unplanned pregnancies.

According to an article, 62,000 minors aged 10 to 18 gave birth in the country (Cruz, 2020). Despite

the implementation of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Law in the Philippines,

these figures continue to rise.

The mindset of Generation Z regarding relationships and divorce may contribute to their

short-lived partnerships. An article from Inquirer.net reveals that Generation Z is more supportive of

divorce and believes in the right to sever ties with individuals who harm them. Infidelity and abuse

are considered valid grounds for divorce (Cepeda, 2020). Additionally, in terms of dating, Business

Mirror Philippines identifies three types of Generation Z couples: those who prefer casual

arrangements without deep emotional connections, those who embody traditional values of chivalry,
and those who rush into official relationships without sufficient face-to-face interaction (Business

Mirror, 2017). These behaviors make Generation Z more vulnerable to pregnancies.

A study cited by Cruz (2020) in 2016 highlighted several challenges faced by Generation Z

single-parent mothers in the Philippines, particularly related to childbirth. The study found that

adolescents who started childbearing before age 18 were less likely to complete secondary education

than those who had not experienced early childbearing.

There is a growing perception that many young solo parents are on the rise. Since Generation

Z young mothers are generally minors who are not yet allowed to marry, the number of Generation Z

single-parent mothers is increasing. Statistics show that four (4) out of ten births occur to females who

are single or cohabitating with a non-marital partner, resulting in more than half of children living

with a single parent (Pew Research Center, 2020).

Coping Mechanism

Single mothers in this situation face the adverse impact of juggling multiple roles and

responsibilities, which takes a toll on their psychological well-being. Financial burdens related to the

child's condition, including medical expenses, therapy costs, and medication, further compound their

challenges. Additionally, they often encounter societal pressure and stigmatization associated with

single motherhood. To cope with these difficulties, single mothers commonly rely on support from

their family and friends, draw strength from their religious faith, and employ self-coping strategies

(Bashir, 2022).

Furthermore, the study of Wakai et al. (2023) identified three major coping strategies utilized

by individuals to navigate challenging situations. These strategies included informal social support,

involving seeking assistance from family, friends, and coworkers for emotional support and practical

help; formal social support, accessing resources from municipalities or nonprofit organizations for

structured assistance such as financial aid, housing programs, or counseling services; and self-coping

strategies, relying on personal strengths, resilience, and problem-solving skills to confront and

overcome obstacles. By combining these coping mechanisms, individuals could tap into their existing
social networks, avail themselves of external resources, and harness their inner resilience to manage

difficulties and enhance their overall well-being effectively.

The frequency of stress experienced plays a role in determining the coping mechanisms

employed by individuals. Furthermore, the presence of stress influences the choice of coping

mechanisms, highlighting that the way respondents handle stress has an impact on the selection of

more effective coping strategies (Balbuena, 2022).

In conclusion, the challenges faced by single mothers raising special-needs children in the

absence of a partner are significant and multifaceted. The financial burden, social pressure, and

stigmatization associated with single motherhood can adversely affect their psychological well-being.

However, the study highlights the importance of coping strategies in navigating these challenges.

Informal social support, formal social support systems, and self-coping strategies emerge as crucial

mechanisms for single mothers to manage and overcome adversity.

 CHAPTER III

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research Design

This qualitative study aims to explore the lived experiences of Generation Z solo parent-

mothers. By utilizing phenomenological research methods, the study seeks to gain a deeper

understanding of the participants' subjective perspectives and their unique views of their situations as

solo parent-mothers. Through this exploration, the study aims to uncover the nuanced aspects of their

experiences, challenges faced, coping mechanisms employed, and the meaning they attribute to their

roles as both parents and individuals within their specific context. The phenomenological research

design will allow for an in-depth examination of the participants' subjective realities, providing

valuable insights into the lived experiences of Generation Z solo parent-mothers.

Locale of the study

The study will be conducted in Allacapan, Cagayan due to its relevance in addressing the high

incidence of teenage pregnancy in the municipality. By focusing on this specific location, the study

aims to gain insights into the unique challenges, coping mechanisms, and perceptions of societal

expectations experienced by Generation Z solo parent-student mothers within a context characterized

by a high prevalence of teenage pregnancy. Additionally, conducting the study in Allacapan allows

for a more focused and localized examination of the experiences of this specific group, facilitating

closer relationships with participants and community stakeholders and ensuring a comprehensive

understanding of their lived experiences.

Participants and Research Sampling

The study participants will be Generation Z solo parent-student-mothers from Allacapan,

Cagayan. A total of 10 participants will be included in the research. The ten Generation Z solo parent-

studen-mothers will be chosen through purposive sampling. Purposive sampling will be utilized based

on criteria related to the research (Haudar, Guanho, & Rodriguez, 2010). Participants should be
Generation Z solo parent-student-mothers born after 1996 and typically aged 10-23 years old for this

study. This study’s solo parents are unmarried minors based on the Solo Parent Welfare Act of 2000.

The Act describes solo parents as those left alone by their spouse/partner due to several reasons such

as demise, neglect, or separation who have at least a child under their care.

Research Instrument

The main instrument used in this study is in-depth interviews. The interview guide will be

structured into several parts to gather comprehensive data. It will begin with an introduction to

establish rapport, followed by a section for collecting demographic information. The subsequent parts

will explore the lived experiences of Generation Z solo parent-student mothers, delving into their

specific challenges, understanding their coping mechanisms, and exploring their perceptions of

societal expectations. To ensure the validity and quality of the interview guide, it will undergo a

rigorous validation process involving experts in the field who will review and provide feedback on the

questions and overall structure.

Data Collection

Face-to-face interviews will be conducted to gather data from the solo parent-mothers

participating in the study. The interview guide will be administered in person, allowing for a more

interactive and in-depth exploration of their experiences. Prior to the interviews, participants will be

informed about the ethical considerations that will be followed throughout the study. The research

will adhere to fundamental ethical principles, including respect for individuals, beneficence, fairness,

harmony, respect for groups, and privacy, as outlined by Haudar, Guhao, and Rodriguez (2010). This

ensures that the participants' rights and well-being are protected, and their confidentiality will be

maintained throughout the research process.

Data Analysis

Thematic analysis will be employed to analyze the data gathered from the participants. The

responses provided by each participant for each question will be carefully examined and grouped

together based on their similarities and commonalities. Through this process, themes will emerge,
representing the key ideas, perspectives, and experiences shared by the participants. These themes

will be identified by identifying patterns and recurring responses within the data. The thematic

analysis approach will allow for a systematic and rigorous exploration of the data, ensuring that the

important insights and perspectives of the participants are captured and represented. It will enable the

researcher to identify and interpret the underlying themes that reflect the essence of the participants'

lived experiences as Generation Z solo parent-student mothers.

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Bashir, A., Tariq, A., Khan, A., Ali, I., & Azman, A. (2022). The challenges and coping strategies of

single mothers caring for children with special needs: Experiences from Kashmir, India.

Asian Social Work and Policy Review, 17(1), 15–26. https://doi.org/10.1111/aswp.12265

Mangeli, M., Rayyani, M., Cheraghi, M. A., & Tirgari, B. (2017). Exploring the challenges of

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10.1371/journal.pone.0282387

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 INTERVIEW GUIDE
Demographic Information:

 Age
 Educational background
 Employment status
 Marital status
 Number and ages of their children
 Current living arrangements
Lived Experiences:
1. Can you describe your experience as a Generation Z solo parent-student mother? How did
you find yourself in this situation?
2. What are the major challenges you have encountered in balancing your role as a parent and
your pursuit of education?
3. How has being a solo parent-student affected your personal growth and development?
4. Can you share any significant events or milestones that have shaped your experience as a solo
parent-student?
Specific Challenges:
1. What specific challenges have you faced in managing your responsibilities as a parent and a
student? How have these challenges impacted you?
2. Have you experienced any financial difficulties or limitations as a solo parent-student? How
have you managed these challenges?
3. How have you dealt with emotional stress or feelings of overwhelm in your role as a solo
parent-student?
Coping Mechanisms:
1. What coping mechanisms have you employed to manage the demands of being a solo parent-
student? Which strategies have been most effective for you?
2. Have you sought support from family, friends, or other resources? How have these support
systems helped you in your journey?
3. Can you describe any self-care practices or activities that have helped you maintain your
well-being and academic progress?
Perceptions of Societal Expectations:
1. How do you perceive societal expectations regarding single parenting and pursuing
education? Have you encountered any judgment or stigma from others?
2. How do you navigate these societal expectations and any potential conflicts between your
parental responsibilities and your educational goals?

 Is there anything else you would like to share about your experiences as a Generation Z solo
parent-student mother?