A Qualitative Analysis of the Experience of Female Chinese American Church Leaders: Associations with Gender Role, Culture, and Work-Family Balance

Abstract

This qualitative study explored the unique experiences of seven Chinese American female church leaders, providing examples of the barriers they faced as women and those resulting from cultural conflicts, as well as the impact these factors had on their roles in church ministry. Specifically, the findings addressed the impact of gender roles and culture on these leaders' experiences and the extent to which they were able to achieve work-family balance. The study highlighted the challenges of working with a culturally diverse population as well as the struggles these female leaders faced in a male-dominated field. Furthermore, the factors influencing work-family balance were examined along with strategies for avoiding burnout. Taken together, these findings provided insight into the distinctive experiences of female leaders in ministry and the ways in which churches might be able to better provide for these leaders.