THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF SOLO PARENTS IN SELECTED MUNICIPALITIES OF ZAMBALES

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to find out the lived experiences of solo parents in the selected municipalitiesof Zambales. Purposive sampling was used which included 20 participants‘ ages 18-60 years old solo male orfemale parent, not living with their parents or relatives, may or may not be married but totally not supportedand communicated by their spouse or relative of their spouse. It also includes widowed or widower parents.This study utilized a qualitative research design through face-to-face interviews, specifically,phenomenological through the use of researcher made validated guided questionnaire. It was found out thatsolo parents experienced challenges. Data gathered shows that these are financial problems, limited resourcesthat includes (physical exhaustion, difficulty balancing work and parenting and emotional stress). They alsoexperienced cycle of exhaustion which includes (Psychological problem and physical exhaustion), Roleoverload, lack of personal time and interpersonal anxiety (fear of judgements and emotional stress). Inaddition, solo parents shared and revealed their coping mechanisms. These are support system from family andfriends, spiritual support from their respective religion, they also used self-motivation or encouragement andsupport themselves through focusing on work, amused themselves by social media platforms and by theassistance gave by the different government project.

Keyword: Lived Experiences, Purposive, Phenomenological, Physical Exhaustion, Psychological Problem, Coping Mechanism