A Qualitative Case Study on the Life Experiences and Recovery Process of Single-Parent Immigrant Women After Family Dissolution

This study aims to deeply understand the specific meanings and patterns in the recovery process within the context of the life experiences of single-parent immigrant women after family dissolution. The participants are marriage immigrants or naturalized women currently residing in South Korea, raising children alone due to reasons such as divorce, bereavement, or being unmarried mothers. The analysis revealed three core categories: “The journey of a life in isolation”,“Lonely Struggles at the Intersection of Single-Parent, Migrant, and Woman” and “Continuously Seeking the Path of Hope” along with eight subcategories and 16 meaning units. Based on these research findings, practical recommendations for supporting single-parent immigrant women in the community include continuous case management and identification, strengthening job placement programs, and linking child care services. Additionally, it is recommended to implement programs for improving perceptions of single-parent immigrant women and promoting social integration. Policy recommendations include establishing a coordinated support system and policy framework for single-parent immigrant women, relaxing the criteria for receiving support and naturalization conditions for these women, and enhancing the responsiveness and accessibility of public institutions' manuals for dealing with immigrants.