Social dynamics in rural Punjab: changes in gender roles, spatial mobility and decision making

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to observed the gender roles and changes in decision-making structure in a village of the Punjab, Pakistan. Spatial mobility of young females by time periods and responsibility regarding supervision of young boys and girls are also included. Decision making regarding education, family disputes, property and domestic purchases are described from 1960 through 2008.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample survey was conducted in the village. Systematic sampling technique is used for the selection of the respondents of age 55+ years. An interview schedule was developed as a tool for data collection. The results are based on descriptive and decade wise analyses.

Findings

Results show traditional gender roles, particularly of women are changing since 1980s, mainly due to education that has partially influenced their autonomy. Positive change in attitudes toward daughters is observed to have appeared in the recent past. Fading away of role of grandparents in decision making is evident from the data. To an extent, it has replaced the autonomy of parents and grownup children.

Originality/value

This study is an original research which is significant to develop the understanding of the changing gender roles in the rural community of the Punjab, Pakistan. Furthermore, public policies might be designed to encourage or discourage the change in a structured manner.

Citation

Farooq, A. and K. Kayani, A. (2014), "Social dynamics in rural Punjab: changes in gender roles, spatial mobility and decision making", International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, Vol. 34 No. 5/6, pp. 317-333. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSSP-06-2013-0067