The stigmatization of workers who are single and child-free

Purpose This qualitative study explores the stigmatization of single and child-free (SCF) employees regarding workplace treatment favoring employees with children through the theoretical lens of Stigma Management Communication (SMC). Design/methodology/approach Utilizing narrative analysis of 20 social media videos from TikTok and YouTube triangulated with data from public comments on each video, this research identifies four key themes: taking on extra work, making assumptions, priority in time off and flexible working arrangements, and learning set boundaries. Findings The findings reveal that SCF employees often face inequitable expectations, stigmatization and discrimination due to their SCF status, which has a direct impact on the ways in which they respond and communicate with others in the workplace. Originality/value This study contributes to the understanding of workplace dynamics by highlighting the challenges faced by SCF employees, the SMC strategies used and the implications for organizational policies.