Exploring Role-Strain and Emotional Burden among Housemaids Working for Multiple Employers in Urban Areas
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55737/trt/v-vi.340Keywords:
Role Strain, Emotional Burden, Housemaids, Domestic Workers, Emotional Exhaustion, Occupational StressAbstract
Domestic workers experience an excessive workload with conflicting expectations, which leads to emotional stress and results in psychological damage through their restricted social recognition. The study aimed to understand the lived experiences of housemaids and identify the emotional and occupational challenges associated with working in multiple households. Purposive sampling technique was used to select the sample size. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 housemaids who worked in urban areas. Interviews were transcribed and then analyzed through thematic analysis. The findings revealed four main themes, which included role overload and conflicting expectations; emotional burden and psychological distress; identity, worth and social status; and coping and survival strategies. The participants experienced constant physical exhaustion together with emotional exhaustion and stress, and they felt unvalued while experiencing diminished social status. The participants used various methods to deal with their challenges, which included developing patience, receiving family support, practicing spirituality, and managing their emotions. The study reveals the psychological challenges faced by domestic workers. It urges society to develop better emotional support systems and social awareness about their needs. Further, it highlights the need for safe work environments for housemaids working in some informal employment settings.
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