Balancing Family Responsibilities and Career of Women: Study from Maqasid Al-Shariah

Abstract

As more women become engaged in paid work and also pursue higher education, this double burden of work and study, as well as childcare and housework, has become a topic of much concern among scholars. This research has been analyzed women's experiences in balancing their roles as a woman and as a career person and give meaning to their experiences based on Maqasid al-Shariah. The design of the study was descriptive qualitative. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews was done using NVivo software and the analysis was based on relevant Islamic and contemporary scholarly sources. There were nine themes that emerged: work–family balance, challenges and barriers, family expectations, social and cultural pressure, workplace and educational flexibility, role of Islam; understandings of Maqasid al-Shariah, conflict-management strategies, and support-systems. While participants found the structured routines, prioritization, communication, patience and family support helpful, there were still additional stressors involved, including stress, fatigue, childcare pressures, lack of personal time, and compromise of their careers. The results indicate that women's balance alone is not enough to make sustainable balance. Women's well-being, education, family stability and economic participation are all interwoven protections of life, intellect, lineage, and wealth all through the lens of the Maqasid. The study ends with the conclusion that aspects like shared domestic responsibility, flexibility of institutions, support with childcare and a socially just attitude are essential to safeguard the dignity and wellbeing of the family.