Abstract:

The purpose of this study is to identify the nature of challenges single women experience in attempts to advancing in their professional careers in India. It examines the impact of this ‘Single Women Identity’ through their personal, professional and societal engagements on their career expectations and advancement. The present study adopted a qualitative descriptive approach because it aimed at investigating the experiences of single working women. Data was collected from in-depth interviews conducted with 21 Single Indian working women. This study draws from Bandura’s (2001) social cognitive theory as the theoretical framework. The findings suggest that there are a number of social, organizational and personal attitudinal barriers which hinder the advancement of single women at workplace.  Social and organizational stereotypes, gender discrimination, work-life balance issues, single means “available’ and lack of opportunity for growth are amongst the most prominent challenges at workplace and in social context. The paper provides insight to the unheard voice of Indian Single Women; the challenges and barriers to their career advancement.  The attempt has been made to address the gaps in the literature related to “Single working women” and their career advancement. The implications are discussed with the recommendations to address the needs of this category of employees are provided.