Challenges faced by working women in the pandemic period and their emotional experiences to work

Abstract

Purpose – The main purpose of the study is to examine the effects of non-work roles, work-related differences, COVID-19 experiences, and demographic differences on their emotional experiences towards work during this time. Design /methodology/ approach – Mixed methods research (pluralist) is used to test the hypotheses of the study. Design of the study is explanatory sequential, and method used for the procedure is building. In the first stage, a semi-structured interview method has been used and the data obtained were evaluated with content analysis, statements for the socio-demographic information form are developed with these findings. In the second stage of the study, the questionnaire is applied to 339 working women including the socio-demographic information form and job-related contentment scale. Findings – The qualitative findings of the study indicates that the changes in non-work responsibilities and the change in working type are challenging in the pandemic period compared to the previous period. According to quantitative research findings, socio-demographic differences generally indicate non-significant differences (except working styles and education levels) in job-related contentment levels of working women during the pandemic process, also they have moderate levels of job-related contentment during the pandemic. Discussion – Findings indicates that non-work responsibilities are disadvantages for working women, however these challenges are not deterministic on their job-related contentment. Also, remote working limits communication and management activities but positively affect their job-related contentment. This study contributes to both women's studies & COVID-19 studies, also practitioners to develop women-friendly strategies.