Title

A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY ON THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF STUDENT-MOTHERS

Author(s)

Princess Sarah N. Balan

Jefferson B. Torres

Affiliation

Student

Contributor

Daniel, Mhie B.

Year

2026

Abstract

Juggling motherhood and academic responsibilities in higher education presents a significant challenge for many women. This study explored the lived experiences of twelve student-mothers using a qualitative phenomenological approach, focusing on the challenges they experienced and the coping mechanisms they employed to deal with their educational and parenting roles. The research design employed a qualitative phenomenological research in order to have a deep understanding of the experiences that student-mothers underwent. The participants were identified using a purposive and snowball approach. An interview guide was used for data collection consisting of general background questions, core questions about difficulties and solutions, and reflective exit questions. The interviews go through Verbatim transcription and the analysis was done following Moustakas’ (1994) approach. The challenges of juggling motherhood and education were highlighted by the emergence of key themes: Balancing Dual Roles, Time Constraints, Support, and Organizational Strategies. Student-mothers demonstrated remarkable resilience, remained inspired by their maternal responsibilities, and relied on social support. The study recommends for the school administration to include a policy in the student handbook, encouraging student-mothers to seek support and manage time effectively, and suggests future research on long-term outcomes and institutional support.

Keywords

balancing multiple roles, challenges, higher education, motherhood, student-mothers