The Role of Women as Freelance Day Laborers in Improving Family Welfare at Dolok Maraja Village, Tapian Dolok District, Simalungun Regency

Abstract

Women who work are an effort to increase the role of women, especially in gender development and empowerment. Especially for the lower middle class, where a head of household with a relatively small income can not meet the basic needs of the family. So it is not uncommon for women or wives to work to help their husband to increase economic income. However, low education, skill and age make women choose work in the formal sector by choosing casual laborers as a from of contribution to helping to continue the welfare of their families. This research was conducted in Dolok Maraja Village, Tapian Dolok District, Simalungun Regency using six informants consisting of one key informant is a village head, four main informants is a women daily laborers and one add informant is a the family of women daily laborers. Using qualitative methods with data collection techniques, namely interviews, observations and documentation studies. The results of the study show that housewives who work as freelance daily laborers play an active role in improving the welfare of their families. Result of their work can buy basic food items, pay their children’s school fees, and save money. The role held by these female workers is a transitional role, in addition to taking care of all household needs, they also work to help earn more income for daily life.