Study: Influence of Employed Mothers-in-Law on Female Employment in India
In a recent study, it has been revealed that the employment status of mothers-in-law has a significant impact on female employment rates in India. The study, conducted in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, sheds light on the dynamics of women’s work choices.
One noteworthy finding is that when mothers-in-law are engaged in the workforce, their daughters-in-law are more inclined to seek employment opportunities outside their homes. This trend suggests a shifting paradigm within Indian families, where the traditional roles of women as homemakers are evolving towards a more balanced approach between household duties and professional aspirations.
The pandemic has further played a pivotal role in altering the landscape of female employment. As a consequence of economic upheaval and the need to juggle caregiving responsibilities, a considerable number of women found themselves transitioning into lower-paying self-employment. This shift, while reflective of the resilience and adaptability of Indian women, also underscores the pressing need for comprehensive policies that support women in the labor force.
This study underscores the importance of promoting women’s economic empowerment and the creation of an enabling environment for them to participate fully in the workforce. Encouragingly, it demonstrates that familial support, particularly from mothers-in-law, can play a crucial role in facilitating women’s entry into gainful employment, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and prosperous society.
Re-reported from the article originally published in The Bloomberg
