The Role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Shaping the Work–Family Strain Perspectives of Single Women Parents

Abstract

The rapid advancement of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has transformed the way individuals manage work, family responsibilities, and access to social support. For single women parents, ICT presents opportunities to facilitate communication, enhance flexibility, and improve the management of competing work and family demands. Despite these potential benefits, limited qualitative studies have explored how ICT shapes the work–family strain perspectives of single women parents. This study explored the role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in shaping the work–family strain perspectives of single women parents. A qualitative study using an Interpretive Description approach was conducted among 15 purposively selected single women parents in Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo, Philippines. Data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews using a researcher-developed interview guide. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis. Six themes emerged from the analysis: (1) ICT as a Tool for Efficient Work–Family Coordination; (2) ICT as a Source of Accessible Information and Social Support; (3) ICT Promotes Reinvention and Work–Family Symbiosis; (4) ICT Reduces Work–Family Conflict through Flexibility; (5) Expanding Digital Access and ICT Skills; and (6) Strengthening ICT-Based Government and Community Support Services. The findings revealed that ICT enhances communication, improves time management, expands access to employment and social support, promotes adaptive coping strategies, and reduces work–family strain through greater flexibility. Participants also emphasized the importance of improving digital literacy, internet accessibility, and ICT-enabled public services to better support single women parents. The study concludes that ICT plays a vital role in strengthening the resilience of single women parents by improving work–family balance, facilitating access to information and support systems, and expanding opportunities for economic participation. The findings highlight the need for collaborative initiatives among government agencies, educational institutions, employers, and community organizations to promote digital inclusion, strengthen ICT competencies, and develop responsive ICT-based services that address the evolving needs of single-parent families....