Abstract: The purpose of this research was to gather information in exploring the discourses of the student-mothers in the academe impacting struggles, hopes, aspirations, and their coping mechanisms employed on the different pressures they faced. The following research objectives informed this research: to describe the struggles and journey of student-mothers; to determine the hopes and aspirations of student-mothers; and to determine the coping mechanisms of student-mothers of the different pressures they are facing. This phenomenological study explored and described the experiences of student mothers. A researcher-made interview guide questionnaire was used in gathering data. This study also involved collecting, compiling, and analyzing data gathered through semi-structured interviews. From the three major themes, namely: 1) struggles and journey; 2) hopes and aspirations; and 3) coping mechanisms; twelve sub-themes emerged which included time management, financial concerns, negative criticisms from people, motherhood responsibilities, health reasons, intellectual challenges, to complete a degree, to land a job immediately for a better life, to make the family proud, strengthening family bond, self-motivation, and support from family, friends, and teachers. This research implies encouragement to other mothers to continue their incomplete education even if they already have children or families of their own. Further, the research suggests a motivation to push and work harder for still; victory awaits those who sacrifice and persevere. Future directions are also discussed in this study.
Keywords: career pathways, discourses, mothers in the academe, phenomenological study, Philippines.
Title: CAREER PATHWAYS: DISCOURSES OF MOTHERS IN THE ACADEME
Author: JOVENIL R. BACATAN, RENE P. SULTAN
International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research
ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)
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