Balancing burdens and bonds: Experiences of single working parents raising multiple children, including learners with disabilities

This research employed a qualitative phenomenological approach to analyze the experiences of single working parents raising multiple children, including learners with disabilities, in Koronadal City Division, Philippines. Based on Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory and Resilience Theory, the study examined how caregiving is influenced by the interplay of individual and structural factors. Data was gathered via semi-structured interviews with eight intentionally selected individuals and processed by thematic analysis. Seven interconnected themes emerged:(1) persistent psychological strain, (2) role conflict across work and caregiving domains, (3) economic vulnerability as a structural constraint, (4) limited access to institutional services, (5) reliance on informal social support, (6) faith-based coping mechanisms, and (7) child-centered motivation sustaining caregiving. Research reveals that caregiving involves ongoing negotiation of duties under limited socio-economic and institutional contexts. Resilience is defined as a dynamic, context-specific process influenced by the interplay of individual, relational, and systemic elements. The study introduces a Holistic Ecological–Resilience Support Framework to guide multi-tiered treatments and policy formulation designed to enhance inclusive support systems for the disadvantaged families.