• CHRISTOBEL JESINTHA J
• ELIZEBETH RANI V

Background The increasing participation of women in the workforce has significantly contributed to economic and social development. Despite these advancements, working women often experience emotional and psychological challenges while balancing professional responsibilities with family and caregiving roles. Aim This study aimed to explore the emotional experiences of working women in balancing professional and family responsibilities. Methods A qualitative descriptive phenomenological research design was adopted. Twenty working women employed in healthcare, education, and corporate sectors in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews conducted until thematic saturation was achieved. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis approach. Results Thematic analysis revealed five interconnected themes: (1) role conflict and emotional strain, (2) emotional guilt and social expectations, (3) workplace pressures and emotional well-being, (4) coping strategies and emotional resilience, and (5) personal fulfillment and identity. Participants described emotional fatigue, competing role expectations, workplace stress, and societal pressures, while also expressing resilience, empowerment, confidence, and personal satisfaction. Conclusion Working women experience both emotional strain and personal growth while managing multiple professional and domestic responsibilities. Supportive workplace policies, family support systems, flexible working arrangements, and mental health interventions are essential to promote emotional well-being and work–life balance among working women.

Working women; emotional well-being; work–life balance; phenomenology; qualitative research; emotional resilience; mental health.

"BETWEEN CAREER AND CARE: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY ON THE EMOTIONAL EXPERIENCES OF WORKING WOMEN BALANCING PROFESSIONAL AND FAMILY RESPONSIBILITIES ", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.13, Issue 5, page no.g39-g48, May-2026, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2605606.pdf

"BETWEEN CAREER AND CARE: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY ON THE EMOTIONAL EXPERIENCES OF WORKING WOMEN BALANCING PROFESSIONAL AND FAMILY RESPONSIBILITIES ", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.13, Issue 5, page no. ppg39-g48, May-2026, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2605606.pdf