Domestic workers in Colombia as spouses: security and servitude

The article presents the qualitative findings about the spousal role of women who are in per diem domestic work in Colombia. Sixty participants obtained through a random sample of employer homes were interviewed about the nature and the quality of their roles. The results provided are based on the participants' descriptions of their subjective experiences as spouses within the larger context of women's roles and daily life experiences. The results suggest that the women find many aspects of their spousal roles satisfying. On top of these experiences are their feelings that the spouses' role provides them with cariño (being loved and cared for). Additionally, sharing parenting was an important aspect of the satisfaction in the relationship. On the other hand, the women identified many stresses including a constant sense of demoralization and being fearful of abandonment. Being, or fearing, the other women and living with their spouse's aggressions were also described as stressful aspects of their role. Strategies to cope with the stress included taking time out alone, having emotional reactions, blaming the spouse for the stress, and talking with others. The meaning of the need for security and the price of servitude are discussed.