Societal and Social Service Experiences of Unwed Korean Mothers Who Rear Their Children

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to reposition the field's understanding of unwed Korean mothers through narratives told by seven women about their experiences with social services and support during pregnancy and child rearing. Using a qualitative research framework combined with a phenomenological method, this study conveys their voices. The interviews indicate a discrepancy between the women's needs and the services available, a discrepancy largely caused by the traditional social exclusion of unwed mothers. The interviews highlight the need to transform the current system from one that discriminates against unwed mothers to one that supports them in their child-rearing efforts.