A Breadwinner’s Journey: Exploring the Lived Experiences of Gen Z as Primary Providers in a Filipino Household

Author(s)	Ms. Krishia Mae Sarmiento Mangabat
Country	Philippines
Abstract	This study examines the lived experiences of Filipino Generation Z individuals who have assumed the role of family breadwinners. Guided by Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), this qualitative research seeks to uncover how these young adults make meaning of their experiences and how such roles shape their personal growth and evolving sense of identity. Findings revealed a four-phase journey: Commencement of the Role captures the sudden onset of responsibility due to parental separation, unemployment, or being the eldest child. The Weight of the Responsibility highlights the emotional, mental, and financial tolls of sustaining a household while managing self-sacrifice and pressure. Resilience and Growth uncover adaptive strategies and moments of meaning-making, as participants begin to find fulfillment in their roles. Finally, Reshaping of Self (Identity Formation) marks a developmental transition where participants embrace maturity, commit to their roles, and plan for a future that balances familial duty with personal ambition.
Keywords	Gen Z breadwinners, Filipino family dynamics, Filipino cultural expectations, socio-economic pressure, emotional and financial burden
Field	Sociology > Philosophy / Psychology / Religion
Published In	Volume 8, Issue 1, January-February 2026
Published On	2026-01-31
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i01.67803
Short DOI	https://doi.org/hbm2hx

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