An analysis of the challenges faced by women at the workplace: a case of Matthew Rusike Children’s Home, Harare

Abstract

This research was driven by the need to identify and analyze the challenges faced by women at the workplace which include abuse, health and discrimination among others. It also sought to assess the relationship of women and other employees at the workplace, and findings obtained from the use of questionnaires and interviews guided by the exact questions from the questionnaire made it clear that women face quite a number of challenges at the workplace and these proved to be socially and economically driven. The findings showed that women at MRCH are indeed facing challenges at the workplace. Challenges identified were financial constraints, insubordination, disrespect from children, health problems, intervention of others, unclear communication channels and job encroachment. Consequently, women (n=21) at MRCH are affected by the challenges they face. Women fail to meet deadlines and this hinders work progress. Challenges affect them psychologically and it has been noted to be as a result of the double barreled task they do as mothers and employees. Results showed that 100% (n=21) are facing challenges at the workplace in this case MRCH. Women tend to have little time with their real families and spend most of their time at the institution, and this leads to strenuous situations that cause health challenges. Therefore, challenges have a negative effect on women and their working performance. However, at times the challenges they face motivates women to be brave and achieve targeted goals. The research showed that women are able to create sound relationships which prompt a good working environment. Nevertheless, to ensure that women circumvent these challenges, there is need to establish Workers Unions and policies at the workplace that provide a framework in as far as maintenance of a good working environment is concerned.