Organization of single-parent families in informal markets: A case study in the city of Trujillo, Peru

Abstract

The objective of this research was to share reflections on a study that focused on women who independently head their households within the commercial context of the Trujillo market. Methodology: A qualitative, non-experimental, and cross-sectional approach was used, involving in-depth interviews conducted with a sample of 200 women managing single-mother households. Results: The findings revealed that 84.86% of the women had well-defined tasks, 80.25% struggled to fully meet their needs, 69.72% assumed clearly defined roles, 64.08% felt capable of supporting their households on their own, 57.75% found it challenging to lead a household independently, and 47.89% reported that consistently supporting their children with academic tasks was difficult. Additionally, the results showed that single-mother families experienced changes and transformations in the traditional structural image of the family model, as well as in value-based, attitudinal, and work performance aspects that sustain the family. Conclusions: The study highlighted the importance of the determination and resilience of these micro-entrepreneurial women, motivated by their commitment to supporting both their families and themselves.