Familial and Socio-cultural Barriers Faced by Working Women: Evidence-Based study of District Gujrat, Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

Women's empowerment through participation in the productive market is one of the most imperative aspects for the socio-economic growth and development of any nation. In recent decades, drastic changes have been observed in the role of women as they have made remarkable contributions and proved their abilities and capabilities in all spheres of life. Despite rapid globalization and astonishing improvement in the traditional role of women, gender segregation, discrimination, and masculine culture persist in families, communities, and productive sectors, especially in developing countries like Pakistan. Families are the basic, informal, and fundamental agents that provide rudiments and play a vital role in determining women's performance in their personal, social, and professional lives. To understand the familial and socio-cultural barriers faced by working women, this qualitative study obtained primary information through snowball and convenience sampling techniques from women working in different occupations in the district of Gujrat. The study focuses on women with more than five years of work experience. The study found that familial and socio-cultural barriers significantly affected the social, psychological, and physical health of working women. Findings indicated that women who belong to supportive families and societies have more confidence, participate in decision-making, possess better interpersonal communication skills, and play a significant productive role for their families and society.