Degree

BS (Social Sciences & Liberal Arts)

Faculty / School

School of Economics and Social Sciences (SESS)

Department

Department of Social Sciences & Liberal Arts

Date of Award

Spring 2024

Date of Submission

2024-08-26

Advisor

Irum Iqbal Hussain, Lecturer, Department of Social Sciences and Liberal Arts, Institute of Business Administration

Committee

Aliya Iqbal Naqvi, Visiting Faculty, Department of Social Sciences

Project Type

SSLA Culminating Experience

Access Type

Restricted Access

Keywords

Single Women, Autonomy, Psychological Well-Being, Societal Expectations, Coping Mechanisms

Abstract

This study explores the lived experiences of single, working women in Pakistan, focusing on how they navigate the societal pressures and cultural expectations that prioritize marriage while asserting their personal autonomy and pursuing professional goals. Utilizing a qualitative research approach, in-depth interviews with seven participants reveal the complexities of balancing societal norms with individual aspirations. The study is framed by eudaimonic well-being, feminist discursive analysis, and Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory to provide a comprehensive understanding of how these women negotiate their identities, maintain psychological well-being, and challenge societal expectations. Findings highlight the pervasive stigma and scrutiny these women face due to their singlehood, but also reveal their resilience in redefining their worth beyond marital status. The research uncovers the strategies these women employ, such as building strong support networks, setting boundaries, and reframing societal narratives, to preserve their autonomy and well-being. Ultimately, this study contributes to the understanding of singlehood in a predominantly marriage-centric society, offering insights into the evolving dynamics of gender, identity, and autonomy in South Asia.

Pages

86

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