Young mothers’ struggles between career development and responsibilities as caregivers in Hong Kong

Abstract

Young mothers face the challenge of balancing personal growth and development with their responsibilities as caregivers. Pursuing education and career advancement is significantly constrained for them. Research indicates that young mothers encounter more difficulties compared to their counterparts in pursuing education and career development, which results in lower compensation and rewards in the job market. This study focused on understanding the current situation and driving forces of Hong Kong young mothers in education and career development, as well as the challenges they face. The study targeted young mothers aged 24 or below who were served by the Hyacinth Project. Convenient sampling was employed, and online questionnaires were distributed through the project’s social workers. A total of 124 valid and completed questionnaires were collected. The findings revealed that many young mothers face a combination of challenges in their career development, including low education level, low income, low employment rates, and high job mobility. Additionally, it was found that various challenges in the domains of work, family, and personal life hindered the further education and employment prospects of young mothers. In conclusion, government-provided childcare support is essential, but additional measures such as bridging learning programs to obtain recognized qualifications, the implementation of family-friendly policies in training institutes and the private sector, and supportive employment counselling are crucial for helping young mothers overcome career obstacles. These measures are vital in supporting the career development of young mothers and empowering them to achieve success.