ABSTRACT
The qualitative study aimed to know the challenges and coping mechanisms of childless teachers and their implications to the teaching profession. The research method utilized in the study was qualitative using in-depth interview and the design was phenomenology. Majority of the participants were middle and old age, have long years as married couple, and their husbands work away from home. The challenges faced by childless teachers were pressured to have a child, less confident and inspired, unscheduled absences, parenthood feeling, feeling embarrassed and insulted, feeling of incompleteness and loneliness, and feeling unsecured. The childless teachers coping mechanisms were being contented and satisfied, loving children of others, accepting the reality, adopting a child, spending more time and attention to learners, spending quality time with husband, making self busy, praying, and taking care of pets. A culture of acceptance, understanding, and support within the teaching profession ensures that childless teachers thrive both personally and professionally.
Keywords: Challenges, Coping Mechanisms, Childless Teachers, and Teaching Profession
INTRODUCTION
Childlessness encompasses a range of complex emotional, social, and cultural dimensions. For individuals and couples facing challenges in conceiving or choosing not to have children, societal expectations, and norms can amplify the complexity of this issue. The emotional toll, stigmatization, and pressure from the family and peers are significant aspects of being childless. By delving into the shared experiences of those affected, we can understand the challenges, choices, and societal dynamics.
The issue of childlessness has attracted attention from sociologists and demographers globally (Koppen, Mazuy & Toulemon, 2017). While it is prevalent in developed countries(Buchanan & Rotkirch, 2013), it gradually becoming more noticeable in developing nations like the Philippines.
In the Philippines, there is a widespread belief that children are Divine gifts and there is societal pressure for married individuals to become parents.
The cultural expectation is so ingrained that not having a child is viewed as an unfortunate state for married couples (Medina, 2001). The cultural expectation persists with newly married couple frequently facing inquiries like, “Do you have a baby already?” This underscores the challenging situation experienced by childless Filipinos, as emphasized by Tudy and Tudy (2020).
Rich et al. (2011) argue that childlessness is frequently misunderstood, with the term itself carrying a negative connotation, particularly for women who opt not to have children (voluntary childlessness).
On the other hand, involuntary childlessness is linked to fertility issues or medical conditions that hinder conception. This may involve conditions affecting both men and women, ranging from hormonal imbalances to structural abnormalities (Gifford, 2022).
Childlessness caused by external circumstances can lead to various types of difficult emotions (Lola & Lykke, 2022) including sadness, grief, frustration, and sense of loss. Individuals and couples may experience stress, anxiety, and even depression. Societal expectations around family and procreation can contribute to feelings of inadequacy or social stigma. There are external pressures, from family and friends, adding to the emotional burden.
In the case of married couple who are in the teaching profession, the pressure is real, knowing that their job requires them to cater the children. Hence, having no child is a question on their capacity to nurture the children entrusted to them.
Individuals and couples who are dealing with involuntary childlessness often develop various coping mechanisms. These may include seeking psychological, social and emotional support through counseling or support groups, exploring alternative paths to parenthood, support from family, friends, and colleagues, or focusing on personal and professional pursuits (Pasztor et al., 2019).
The strain of involuntary childlessness among teachers can impact relationships, including marriages or partnerships. Communication and mutual support become crucial as couples navigate the emotional complexities of unmet reproductive desires.
Understanding involuntary childlessness involves recognizing it as a complex and multifaceted experience that goes beyond the biological aspect. It encompasses psychological, social, and economic dimensions, requiring sensitivity and support from both healthcare professionals and society at large.
Due to these observations, the researcher would like to know the challenges and coping mechanisms of childless teachers and their implications to the teaching profession in the Schools Division of Guimaras for the school year 2022-2023.
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