Gender communication and marriage law: A socio-cultural analysis of single mothers’ post-divorce experiences in Indonesia

Background and Purpose: The experiences of single mothers after divorce in Indonesia reflect broader socio-cultural and legal challenges shaped by patriarchal gender norms and weaknesses in marriage law. Single mothers often face stigma, economic vulnerability, and unequal power relations within family and community communication. This study examines their lived experiences through a gender communication perspective, focusing on how cultural norms and legal limitations affect their social position and vulnerability. Methodology: Using a qualitative approach, this study conducted in-depth interviews with single mothers (n=10) from diverse socio-cultural backgrounds. Data were analysed thematically to explore family communication patterns, coping strategies, and community responses, supported by NVivo software. Findings: The findings show that patriarchal constructions reinforce stigma and a double caregiving burden, while ineffective enforcement of child support and limited legal protection further weaken single mothers’ socio-economic position and restrict their communicative agency within family and community contexts as well as in everyday social interactions. Contributions: This study highlights the need for gender-sensitive legal reform and inclusive communication practices to empower single mothers in Indonesia, while also contributing theoretical insights to gender communication and family studies, and offering policy-relevant recommendations for legal and social institutions. Keywords: Gender communication, single mothers, divorce, Marriage Law, Indonesia. Cite as: Salisah, N. H., Daud, N., & Hamidah, L. (2026). Gender communication and marriage law: A socio-cultural analysis of single mothers’ post-divorce experiences in Indonesia. Journal of Nusantara Studies, 11(2), 380-400. http://dx.doi.org/10.24200/jonus.vol11iss2pp380-400