The Lived Experiences of Female Heads of Household in Home Businesses: A Phenomenological Exploration

In addition to contributing significantly to a country’s gross domestic product, home-based enterprises establish a connection between domestic space and economic activity. These enterprises can be especially beneficial for women, particularly female heads of households in developing countries, as they provide a critical resource for empowerment and economic independence. This study aims to explore the lived experiences of female heads of households in establishing and managing home-based enterprises. The investigation implements a qualitative phenomenological approach. A total of 19 female chiefs of households in the city of Islamabad-e-Gharb were selected using a non-probabilistic and judgment-based sampling method. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step method for qualitative analysis. The results suggest that participants’ experiences can be classified into three main categories: prerequisites for home-based businesses, proficiency in sales man-agement, and challenges faced by female-headed households. The results emphasize that these women and their families are afforded valuable opportunities by entering the entrepreneurial sector; however, they are also confronted with a variety of obstacles. This emphasizes the necessity of support programs and effective policy formulation that are customized to the unique requirements of this group of women. Additionally, specialized training and financial support can create a more sustainable pathway for the development of home-based businesses.