What it is Like to be Single: Experiences of Unmarried Female Professionals in Ghana

Abstract

Being married is regarded as a significant social and developmental duty. However, the absence of such a connection frequently results in societal stigmatization and marginalization. The study explored the lived experiences of unmarried female professionals in Ghana. The study adopted a qualitative approach and a phenomenological design. Fifteen unmarried female professionals were selected using the snowball sampling technique. Data was accumulated through the use of an interview. The data were analyzed in themes. The study found among other reasons, that attaining a high level of education, setting a high standard in life, fear of being disappointed, and enjoyment of singlehood were reasons why unmarried female professionals remained single. The study again revealed that society made several verbal and nonverbal comments or reactions that stereotyped and discriminated against the lives of single female professionals. Such comments as “when are you getting married?”, “you are old, get married,” husband snatcher,” among others, were found. The results also showed that these stereotypes and discriminatory practices against single female professionals have negative psychological effects, including feelings of unhappiness, anxiety about staying single forever, shyness, and the stress of peer, family, workplace, and community pressure to get married. It was found that single female professionals were dissatisfied with their current marital status. Also, peers, co-workers and family members put pressure on single female professionals to get married. As a result, recommendations were made in light of the study. Keywords: Single, Experiences, Unmarried, Female professionals DOI: 10.7176/RHSS/13-8-05 Publication date: April 30 th 2023