Q11. How does patriarchy impact the position of a middle-class working woman in India?

Model Answer:

Introduction

Patriarchy, a social system that privileges male dominance and authority, significantly influences the position of middle-class working women in India. This impact manifests in various dimensions, including economic opportunities, social expectations, workplace dynamics, and personal autonomy.

Body

Impact of Patriarchy 

1. Economic Opportunities:
   • Despite rising participation in the workforce, middle-class women often encounter wage disparities compared to their male counterparts. According to the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report 2023, women in India earn about 64% of what men earn for similar work.
   • Job opportunities are frequently limited by societal expectations, which prioritize traditional roles of homemaking over career advancement. This affects their ability to pursue higher education or specialized training.
2. Social Expectations:
   • Cultural norms dictate that women should prioritize family responsibilities, leading to a “double burden” where they manage both professional and domestic duties. Research from UN Women indicates that women in India spend nearly six hours per day on unpaid care work, significantly affecting their professional commitments.
   • Middle-class working women often face social stigma or backlash for prioritizing their careers, resulting in internal conflicts and psychological stress.
3. Workplace Dynamics:
   • Women in professional settings frequently encounter workplace harassment and discrimination, undermining their job security and career progression. A 2018 survey by the Indian National Bar Association revealed that 58% of women in the legal profession experienced sexual harassment.
   • The lack of support systems, such as maternity leave and childcare facilities, further hampers their ability to balance work and family, leading to high attrition rates among female employees.
4. Personal Autonomy:
   • Patriarchal norms often limit women's decision-making power within households, impacting their choices regarding career paths, work hours, and personal aspirations.
   • Middle-class working women may face pressure to conform to traditional roles, curtailing their independence and self-expression.

Conclusion

‍In summary, patriarchy continues to shape the experiences of middle-class working women in India, influencing their economic potential, social roles, workplace environments, and personal autonomy. Addressing these challenges requires systemic reforms, greater gender sensitivity in workplaces, and societal shifts towards equality.

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