Salient factors influencing experiences encountered by reentry women : a qualitative study

Jones, Marilyn R. (2001) Salient factors influencing experiences encountered by reentry women : a qualitative study. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

This qualitative study was conducted to identify salient factors influencing the experiences encountered by women as they reentered post-secondary institutions, the workforce, or both. The study involved 11 women ranging in age from 19 to 40 plus, who were registered with a Center for Women Interested in Successful Employment. These women decided to return after periods of absence. -- The data were collected using semi-structured interviews and personal narratives written by the women. Data analysis adhered to the guidelines outlined by Gay and Airasian (2000). The interviews were audio-taped and transcribed for data analysis. The investigator listened to the audio-tapes several times before transcribing them. The data were broken down and classified using four iterative steps that were interrelated, but did not necessarily follow a linear pattern. The data were read and reread for familiarization and identification of main themes, examined for detailed descriptions of setting, participants, and activities, categorized and grouped into themes, and finally interpreted and synthesized into general conclusions. -- Various career development theories and approaches, developmental theories, and theories of feminist counselling were reviewed and presented. These theories provided a framework for understanding the many variables influencing the experiences of reentry women. -- Recommendations for practice focused on the need for improved counselling services and programs for reentry women and women in general, especially in rural areas. Recommendations for research included further studies on: required supports for reentry women, follow-up to determine continued level of satisfaction with reentry, information on the quality and quantity of available counselling services for reentry women and women in general, preparation necessary for the perceived fears associated with reentry challenges, and occupational choices, and information on how these choices relate to reentry experiences.

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