Single Mothers and Their Parenting Struggles in Karachi, Pakistan - A Sociocultural and Economic Perspective

Abstract

Single motherhood is an emerging yet underexplored social reality in urban Pakistan, where traditional family structures continue to dominate societal norms. In cities like Karachi, the increasing prevalence of single mothers, whether due to divorce, widowhood, or abandonment—has brought new challenges to light, particularly in the realm of parenting. Despite its growing occurrence, single motherhood remains heavily stigmatized, often associated with social exclusion, economic insecurity, and emotional hardship. This study aims to investigate the parenting struggles of single mothers residing in Karachi, a city characterized by its diverse socioeconomic landscape and complex cultural fabric. The research focuses on how these women navigate the dual responsibilities of caregiving and breadwinning, amidst cultural expectations, financial pressures, and limited institutional support systems. Employing a mixed-method research design, this study combines in-depth qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to capture the nuanced experiences of single mothers. Key areas of exploration include access to education and healthcare for children, social stigma, mental health, and coping strategies. The findings aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of the social and psychological dimensions of single motherhood in Pakistan and to provide evidence-based insights for developing inclusive policies and community-based interventions that can better support single-parent households in urban settings.