The Social Construction of Generation Z Adolescents Regarding Mothers’ Roles as Primary Family Breadwinners

Abstract

Changes in family structure in Indonesia have shifted gender role divisions, including the 
increasing number of mothers serving as primary breadwinners. However, how Generation Z 
adolescents interpret this change remains underexplored, despite their critical stage of identity 
formation, openness to gender equality, and exposure to social and digital influences shaping 
family perspectives. This study aims to examine the social construction of Generation Z 
adolescents regarding mothers’ roles as primary breadwinners by considering personal 
experiences, family interactions, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Employing a qualitative 
phenomenological approach, the study involved six adolescents aged 18–21 from upper, 
middle, and lower economic classes. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, 
observation, and documentation, and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that 
socioeconomic class shapes each stage of adolescents’ social construction, from externalization 
and objectivation to internalization. Upper-class adolescents perceive working mothers as a 
conscious choice and self-actualization, middle-class adolescents view it as family negotiation 
and cooperation, while lower-class adolescents regard it as an economic necessity and a form 
of family resilience. Academically, this study contributes to family and gender sociology from 
a cross-class adolescent perspective. Practically, the findings inform educators, communities, 
and policymakers in strengthening gender literacy, social studies education, and contextsensitive family empowerment programs.