The impact of divorce on single-parent family experiences from the perspective of symbolic interactionism: The case of Eskişehir

As in many countries, divorce rates are steadily rising in Turkey, and the number of single-parent families, a new family type, is increasing daily. In today's increasingly diverse family landscape, the single-parent family is the most visible new family type in Turkey. This new family type raises many questions, including the sources of family transformation, the dynamics that led to the emergence of new family types, and how they ultimately fulfill their functions. Drawing on the developments discussed in this thesis, the conditions and processes that gave rise to the single-parent family type are analyzed through the experiences of divorced women. The primary objective of this study is to explore the process from the decision to marry to single parenthood and the post-divorce experiences through the transformation of various social symbols related to the family (love, marriage, gender roles, children, parenthood, divorce, etc.). Using qualitative research methods, the study conducted in-depth interviews with 12 single-parent women. The data obtained were analyzed using thematic analysis, and the findings were evaluated under four main themes. The results of the study, which adopts symbolic interactionism as its theoretical foundation, reveal that as the meanings of these symbols change, relationships between men and women are also reshaped. The fact that single-parent families are predominantly headed by women points to differing experiences in terms of gender roles and responsibilities. It is understood that the dominant traditional family perception in society renders single-parent family structures invisible, further exacerbating the challenges women face. This study demonstrates the importance of understanding the divorce experience through the experiences of single parents rather than limiting it to macro factors such as women's increasing education and entering the workforce, and shaping family policies in light of changing social symbols.