What does the term "displaced homemaker" refer to?

The term "displaced homemaker" specifically refers to individuals, often women, who have primarily been responsible for managing a household and raising children but find themselves needing to enter or re-enter the workforce due to a change in their personal situation, such as divorce, separation, or the loss of a partner.

These individuals may have taken time away from paid employment to focus on family responsibilities, and as a result, they may lack recent work experience or have a gap in their employment history when they seek jobs. The focus here is on the transition from being a homemaker to actively searching for employment opportunities, which highlights the unique challenges and skills these individuals possess.

This understanding helps to frame the concept within the context of career development, as displaced homemakers may require specific support and resources in their job search, including career counseling and skills training.