The Reality of Angkola Batak Women as Divorce Single Parents in Padangsidimpuan

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Medan— Divorce Reality for Young Angkola Batak Single Mothers Revealed in Padangsidimpuan Study. Research conducted by Azhar Rasyidah Lubis, Hadriana Marhaeni Munthe, and Linda Elida from the University of North Sumatra (USU) published in the Contemporary Journal of Applied Sciences (CJAS).

The researchers conducted qualitative fieldwork in North Padangsidimpuan District, the area with the highest divorce rate locally over the past five years. Data came from 16 informants, including divorced young single mothers aged 20–40, community leaders, religious leaders, and family members. In-depth interviews, observation, and documentation were used to map how society interprets and responds to their status.

Main Findings

1. Domestic violence is the leading cause of divorce.
Physical and psychological abuse emerged as the most common trigger. Many cases were linked to substance abuse, emotional instability, and unsafe home environments for women and children. Divorce became a survival decision rather than a social rebellion.

2. Economic instability worsens marital breakdown.
Husbands’ failure to provide stable income or take responsibility created long-term stress. Women reported carrying both emotional and financial burdens alone before deciding to separate.

3. Family interference fuels conflict.
Disputes between wives and in-laws often intensified marital tension. In Angkola Batak culture, marriage links entire families, so unresolved extended-family conflict can accelerate divorce.

4. Cultural status becomes “in-between.”
After divorce, women lose formal standing in their husband’s traditional family but are not fully restored to their original status either. Their roles in traditional ceremonies are limited, reflecting an ambiguous social position.

5. Social acceptance exists, but with monitoring.
Despite stigma, most divorced young mothers are not openly excluded. They still join religious gatherings, community events, and social activities. Support appears in the form of job opportunities, moral encouragement, and help from relatives and neighbors. However, subtle suspicion can arise if their appearance or economic situation changes after divorce.

The study shows that religion plays a balancing role. Islamic teachings view divorce as allowed but discouraged, promoting reconciliation while also rejecting unfair stigma. Religious leaders interviewed emphasized that divorced women—especially those escaping violence—deserve dignity and community support.

Culturally, Angkola Batak society distinguishes between marando (divorced women) and mabalu (widows by death). Widows are generally viewed more sympathetically, while divorced women face closer moral evaluation. Even so, community practices reveal gradual adaptation: divorce is increasingly seen as part of social reality rather than pure disgrace.

According to Azhar Rasyidah Lubis and her colleagues at Universitas Sumatera Utara, the resilience of these women reflects a shift in meaning. Divorce no longer automatically defines failure; it can signal courage to protect oneself and children from harm. The researchers note that many single mothers show independence and determination rooted in cultural and religious values.

Why This Matters

The findings provide insight for:

• Policy makers – Programs addressing domestic violence, economic empowerment, and legal protection for women are crucial.
• Community leaders – Cultural traditions can adapt without losing identity, supporting women while maintaining social harmony.
• Religious institutions – Faith-based guidance can reduce stigma and encourage compassion.
• Educators and social workers – Understanding social construction of stigma helps design better counseling and support systems.

Divorce in this setting is not merely a personal choice. It emerges from intertwined economic, cultural, and safety factors. Recognizing this complexity can help communities respond with empathy rather than judgment.

Author Profiles

• Azhar Rasyidah Lubis –Universitas Sumatera Utara.
  
• Hadriana Marhaeni Munthe –Universitas Sumatera Utara.
• Linda Elida –Universitas Sumatera Utara.

Research Source

Lubis, A.R., Munthe, H.M., & Elida, L. (2026). The Reality of Angkola Batak Women as Divorce Single Parents in Padangsidimpuan. Contemporary Journal of Applied Sciences (CJAS), 4(1), 11–22.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.55927/cjas.v4i1.115
URL resmi: https://ntlformosapublisher.org/index.php/cjas