Analysis of Professional Development, Social Capital and Resilience of Women in Rural Areas: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study

Abstract

Women who live in rural areas are fundamental to achieving the necessary economic, environmental and social changes for the sustainable development of their territory/region. To analyze professional development through sociodemographic factors, resilience and social capital of women in rural areas. A comparative analysis of a sub-sample of men is also proposed. A cross-sectional descriptive study was developed. A total of 229 women and 58 men from rural areas of Spain participants in the study. Sociodemographic, labor, resilience and social capital variables were analyzed. The results show that the participants have an average age of 46.14 years. There are high levels of resilience and social capital. Analysis reveals self-employed women are more likely to have irregular working hours and to be more resilient. Significant differences are also observed in certain aspects of social capital, such as exchanging favors with neighbors and volunteering, which are higher for self-employed women. There is a need to address existing gender challenges and inequalities, and to harness the social capital and resilience of rural women to support their professional development and improve their quality of life.