| This dissertation study sought to understand successful coping strategies women employ managing multiple role responsibilities and determine the extent in which the different strategies were perceived to be effective. Selecting coping strategies that are effective is important in multiple role situations. Research indicates that appropriate active problem-solving strategies are generally associated with positive outcomes in coping with stress. Conversely, avoidance or passive coping is generally found to be ineffective in coping with stress.;The population sample in this study consisted of professional women (i.e. Managers, Analysts, and Administrators) in the Aerospace industry of diverse race and religious backgrounds. The framework chosen for this study was a qualitative design utilizing a phenomenological approach to learn about individual lived experiences through self-reflections.;A semi-structured group interview was the primary investigative forum used for ascertaining information from each subject. The investigative format achieved the active involvement of respondents in the construction of data about their lived experiences. The findings of this study conclude that the coping strategies identified by the women who participated in this research study support previous related research on coping approaches to stress and role strain; in that, coping strategies used are prevention, avoidance, or control related. Women who choose to dominantly engage in multiple roles or desire the responsibilities of multiple roles perceive it can be done with knowledge of choices, establishing priorities, developing plans, and strategies to execute their plans. Conversely, women who do not believe they can successfully manage multiple roles or that women can be effective in multiple roles at least agree that a supportive environment is needed in any path a women undertakes.;The intent of this research was to increase the understanding of how women leading complex lives successfully integrate multiple roles and the demands associated with them. It is hoped that the impact of this research project will continue to reach beyond the women inspired by the shared experiences and lessons learned from one another to corporations, policy makers, and future generations to create social change and work-family life policy changes that support the needs of all parties involved. |
