Abstract
This research study explored the psychosocial and economic experiences and coping strategies of divorced mothers working in the formal economy in Middelburg, Mpumalanga. More specifically, the study set out to describe the psychosocial experiences of divorced mothers, report on the economic experiences of divorced mothers, explore the coping strategies of divorced mothers concerning their psychosocial and economic experiences and make recommendations for social work practice based on the study’s findings to improve social services to divorced mothers. For this study, “formally employed” will refer to workers whose employment conditions are regulated and protected by government policies, regulations and laws. The cognitive model of stress and coping was applied in this study to understand divorced mothers’ experiences and their relevant coping strategies.
A qualitative approach was employed in this study, allowing the researcher to understand the experiences that formally employed mothers have after divorce. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten divorced women who were divorced for between one and seven years, between the ages of 35 and 46, had children younger than 18 years and were employed in the formal economy. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data that was gathered through interviews.
The findings show that although divorced mothers experience complex economic and psychosocial circumstances, they manage to adapt to the post-divorce environment in such a manner that they can accomplish similarly and for some, even better life satisfaction than during their marriages. The study further found that through applying adequate coping strategies, divorced women can develop a new sense of self, independent of their previous relationships.
The recommendations point to the need for social workers to be more available, visible and relevant in providing psychosocial services to divorced women on an individual basis. In addition, there is a need among divorced women for support groups where they can find emotional support and be advised on what to expect financially in the post-divorce environment.
Keywords: Divorced women, psychosocial experiences, economic experiences, coping strategies, social work, social work services.