Are you a supermom? A qualitative assessment of the work-life balance of teachers through the lens of gender discrimination

Abstract

Background

This paper presents the validation of the supermom myth in a new normal situation, where the challenges of the post-pandemic era are so intense that they disrupt women's work-life balance (WOLB).

Objective

The paper investigates the school teachers’ work-life balance in the new normal situations when challenges are enormous due to situational factors such as frequently changing teaching modes (hybrid & online); excessive household chores, the necessity of taking preventive measures, increased children care, and many more endless challenges.

Methods

The study used the in-depth interview-based method for nineteen female teachers working in elementary, middle, and high schools. The researchers interviewed the teachers using phone calls and online meetings held from 1–28 February 2022. The data were analyzed using a qualitative hermeneutic phenomenology approach.

Results

The study identified the mother teachers’ challenges, struggles, acceptances, and adjustments that they have to make at home and the workplace to comply with the new normal situations and fulfill society's expectation of being a superwoman. The study found that teachers found it difficult to prove themselves as supermom during challenging times when the high society and workplace expectations make the work-life balance more complicated.

Conclusions

The paper suggested that organizations should adopt a flexible and comfortable working approach for their employes. The study suggests that female teachers can maintain their mental well-being with family members and coworkers. Further, society should not always perceive women as superwomen; they should be accommodated so they can manage work-life balance. The paper contributes to societal reforms in flexible, professional policy that supports working women; increases the morale and efficiency of women employes. This study offered insights related to the female teachers’ work-life balance when the cultural and social stereotypes expect them to be supermoms in intensified situations, such as the new normal. The study presents the impact of these changes on women's personal, professional, and mental well-being.