1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background of Study
Single parenthood is a growing phenomenon globally. Factors such as increasing divorce rates, changing societal norms, and rising acceptance of non-traditional family structures contribute to this trend. in the United States, for example, nearly 23% of children live in single-parent households, according to the U.S. Census Bureau (2021). Single parents constitute a significant demographic within the civil service workforce, facing unique challenges that can impact their job performance. Balancing professional responsibilities with childcare duties, single parents often encounter barriers such as limited support systems, work-life balance issues, and financial pressures. These factors not only affect their personal well-being but also have implications for organizational effectiveness and employee retention within the civil service.
Single parent is regarded as an individual who is raising one or more children without the assistance of another parent in the household. Single parents may be single due to various circumstances, including divorce, separation, death of a partner, or choice (Harknett & Knab, 2007). The job performance of single parents in civil service roles is influenced by a myriad of factors that intersect personal, professional, and societal domains. As primary caregivers, single parents navigate unique challenges that can significantly impact their work effectiveness and productivity.
The majority of single parents are women, who often face additional barriers such as gender discrimination and wage gaps. in the context of civil service, female single parents might encounter challenges in career advancement and equal pay, affecting their long-term financial stability and job satisfaction (Budig & England, 2001). Governments and organizations have implemented various support systems and policies to assist single parents. These include flexible working hours, telecommuting options, childcare services, and parental leave. However, the effectiveness and accessibility of these supports can vary widely, impacting the overall job satisfaction and performance of single-parent employees in the civil service (Kossek, Baltes, & Matthews, 2011).
Research on the factors influencing the job performance of single parents in civil service roles has evolved significantly over the years. Initially, studies primarily focused on broader issues of work-life balance and gender roles within the workforce. However, as societal norms and family structures have evolved, there has been a growing recognition of the unique challenges faced by single parents, particularly within the structured environment of civil service.
Historically, the discourse has shifted towards understanding the intersection of personal responsibilities, organizational policies, and societal expectations that impact the job effectiveness of single parents. Early studies highlighted disparities in support systems and career advancement opportunities, which influenced job satisfaction and retention rates among single parents in civil service positions.
According to Mendenhall et al., (2012), the economic empowerment of single mothers plays a crucial role in enhancing their livelihood prospects and overall well-being. Access to education, vocational training, and employment opportunities can empower single mothers to achieve financial independence and provide for themselves and their children (Mendenhall et al., 2012). However, systemic barriers such as gender discrimination, lack of affordable childcare, and limited access to supportive social services can hinder single mothers' ability to secure stable employment and advance their careers (Collins et al., 2017).
Research indicates that single mothers often face economic hardship and financial instability compared to their married counterparts. Gupta (2013) found that single mothers are more likely to experience poverty, with lower household income levels and limited access to resources and support systems. Moreover, single mothers may have lower levels of educational attainment, which can further contribute to economic vulnerability and limited employment opportunities (Collins et al., 2017).
Single parenting homes have failed to effectively play the role of both parenting families and this has in many ways affected the child academically, mentally, morally and socially. The area boys/girls phenomenon is a factor that stands out as a problem in the society and is often associated with single-parenting families Nnah (2000). Osarenren (2005) said that many children who were reared in either mother-only or father-only families suffer setbacks in their academic achievement than those brought in intact homes due to the absence of one parent.
Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the factors affecting the job performance of single parents working in civil service.
1.2 Statement of Problems
Single parents employed in civil service face several challenges that can significantly impact their job performance. These challenges include:
- Work-Life Balance: Balancing professional responsibilities with childcare duties often leads to stress and reduced productivity among single parents.
- Career Advancement: Single parents may face barriers to career advancement due to inflexible work schedules, limited childcare options, and biases against caregivers in promotion decisions.
- Financial Pressures: Managing financial obligations as a single parent can create additional stress, affecting job satisfaction and performance.
Furthermore, there is limited availability of supportive policies and resources tailored to the needs of single parents can hinder their ability to effectively manage work and family responsibilities. Therefore, addressing these challenges is essential for creating a supportive work environment that fosters the job performance and well-being of single parents within the civil service.
1.3 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to investigate the factors affecting the job performance of single parents working in civil service. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To examine the availability and effectiveness of organizational support systems, such as childcare services, and parental leave policies, in assisting single parents;
- To evaluate the extent to which work-life balance issues affect the productivity and job satisfaction of single parents in the civil service;
- To explore the financial pressures faced by single parents and how these pressures affect their job performance and overall well-being;
- To identify the key challenges faced by single parents in civil service roles that impact their job performance; and
- To propose evidence-based recommendations for policy makers and civil service organizations to create a more supportive and inclusive work environment for single-parent employees.
1.4 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What are the primary challenges faced by single parents working in civil service roles that impact their job performance?
- How does work-life balance affect the productivity and job satisfaction of single parents in the civil service?
- What organizational support systems are currently available to single parents in the civil service, and how effective are they in addressing their needs?
- In what ways do financial pressures affect the job performance and overall well-being of single parents in the civil service?
- What policies and practices can be implemented to improve the work environment and enhance the job performance of single parents in civil service roles?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H0: Single parents in civil service roles who do not experience poor work-life balance have lower job performance compared to those who manage to maintain a better work-life balance.
- H1: Single parents in civil service roles who experience poor work-life balance have lower job performance compared to those who manage to maintain a better work-life balance.
Hypothesis Two
- H0: Implementation of supportive organizational policies tailored to single parents' needs is not associated with improved job performance among single-parent employees in the civil service.
- H1: Implementation of supportive organizational policies tailored to single parents' needs is associated with improved job performance among single-parent employees in the civil service.
1.6 Significance of Study
The significance of the study on "Factors Affecting the Job Performance of Single Parents Working in Civil Service" can be delineated based on the impact it has on various stakeholders:
- Single Parents in Civil Service: The study provides insights into the unique challenges faced by single parents, helping them understand the factors that affect their job performance. This awareness can empower them to seek appropriate support and resources to improve their work-life balance and job satisfaction.
- Civil Service Organizations: For organizations, the study offers valuable data to inform the development and implementation of policies and practices that support single parents. By addressing the identified challenges, organizations can enhance productivity, reduce turnover, and create a more inclusive workplace.
- Policy Makers: The findings of the study can guide policy makers in crafting legislation and policies that promote work-life balance and support for single parents. This can lead to broader societal benefits, including improved job performance and well-being for single-parent employees.
- Human Resource Managers: HR managers can utilize the study's insights to design targeted interventions, such as flexible working arrangements, childcare support, and career development programs, which can specifically address the needs of single parents and enhance their job performance.
- Academic Researchers: For researchers, the study contributes to the existing body of knowledge on work-life balance, job performance, and the specific needs of single-parent employees. It provides a foundation for further research and exploration in this area, potentially leading to new theories and models.
1.7 Scope of Study
The scope of the research is focused on the Factors affecting the job performance of single parents working in civil service using Abi local Government Area Cross Rivers State as a case study.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, there were some problems encountered which stood as limitations to the research work. Some of the limitations include:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
- Initial Cooperation Delay from Respondents: A particular limitation of this work came as a result of the respondent refusal to offer their cooperation at the initial time they were contacted. This contributed in making the success of this research study difficult.
1.9 Definition of Terms
Job Performance:
The effectiveness with which job duties and responsibilities are executed by an employee, often measured by productivity, quality of work, and meeting organizational goals. It encompasses both the results achieved and the behaviors exhibited by employees in performing their jobs (Campbell, 1990).
Single Parent:
It is an individual who is raising one or more children without the assistance of another parent in the household. Single parents may be single due to various circumstances, including divorce, separation, death of a partner, or choice (Harknett & Knab, 2007).
Civil Service:
A sector of government composed of career bureaucrats hired on professional merit rather than appointed or elected, who are employed to implement public policy and deliver public services. Civil service positions are typically characterized by job security, standardized pay scales, and merit-based advancement (Mosher, 1982).
Work-Life Balance:
It is the equilibrium between personal life and professional responsibilities, where an individual can manage both effectively without one negatively impacting the other. It involves the allocation of time and energy to work and non-work activities to achieve personal satisfaction and well-being (Greenhaus & Allen, 2011).
