The Female Breadwinner: Phenomenological Experience and Gendered Identity in Work/Family Spaces

Although female breadwinners (FBWs) are increasingly common in industrialized society and challenge traditional western gender norms, little research has focused specifically on the experiences of FBWs. These experiences impact individual, family, and organizational decision making. Thus, this project uses a phenomenological method to explore the experiences and gendered identity negotiations of 15 FBWs from the eastern and midwestern U.S. who were recruited via electronic message boards and personal contacts. The study asks how these women experience the phenomenon of being the breadwinner, seeking common elements. Results indicate six essential elements of FBWs’ experiences: (a) having control, (b) valuing independence, (c) feeling pressure and worry, (d) valuing partner’s contributions, (e) feeling guilt and resentment, and (f) valuing career progress.