Economic Vulnerability and Coping Strategies among Low-Income Single Mothers: A Qualitative Study in Northern Malaysia

HRMARS - This qualitative study explores the lived experiences of economic vulnerability and the corresponding coping strategies among low-income single mothers in Northern Malaysia, specifically in Penang and Perlis. Utilizing purposive and snowball sampling, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with five participants to understand the intersection of financial strain, social challenges, and adaptive mechanisms. Thematic analysis reveals that economic vulnerability is a structural issue transcending geographical locations; single mothers in rural areas face high costs of living comparable to urban centres. Key findings highlight that financial distress is exacerbated by non-compliance with child maintenance orders and systemic employment discrimination, where employers often view childcare commitments as a liability. To navigate these pressures, single mothers employ diverse survival strategies, including disciplined expenditure, small-scale savings, and reliance on informal social support networks, particularly from immediate family. The study concludes that financial aid alone is insufficient for long-term stability. The findings emphasize the urgent need for holistic policy interventions, such as skills training, flexible employment opportunities, and institutionalized childcare support, to enhance the economic resilience and social mobility of single-mother households in Malaysia.