Family life, work/life balance are main challenges facing Christian women

Maria Rodriguez-Toth

Family life poses the number one challenge for Christian women of all denominations, with the demands of the work/life balance coming a close second according to a survey carried out last week.

More than half of the practicing Christian women questioned in a Cpanel poll identified these issues as being among the main challenges they face, ahead of others, including the media portrayal of women, materialism, sexual pressures and financial problems.

The survey on the ‘Perception of the Main Challenges of the Christian Journey’ was conducted to coincide with Premier Christian Radio’s Woman to Woman Conference – ‘The Spirit Filled Life’ – in London on 27 October.

It revealed that 60% of women cited family life problems as being one of the main challenges faced by women on their Christian journey, with the work/life balance following on with 58%. Societal pressures were third on the list with 51% while media portrayal was next with 42%.

The highest ranked issue amongst men was societal pressure to behave in certain ways, with 49% of men saying it was one of their main challenges. Work/life balance, once again, took second place [47%], while issues about pornography were third on the list [43%], followed by Materialism [40%].

“Christian women in the 21st century are clearly facing the pressure of juggling family life and career, and this survey highlights that spiritual and practical strain”, said Maria Rodrigues-Toth, Catholic founder of the ‘Woman to Woman’ events and Premier presenter. Maria has an MA in Theology and is a member of the Cor et Lumen Christi community.

Around 15% of the women questioned regarded sexism and 20% regarded discrimination as a main challenge.

ComRes interviewed, on-line, 510 Christian adults living in the UK during October. Data were weighted to be demographically representative of all UK practicing Christians. ComRes is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules.