Struggling to Balance: Understanding Role Conflict Among Working Women in Kolkata, India
Working women face significant challenges in balancing professional and domestic responsibilities, leading to increased stress, reduced well-being, and lower quality of life. In a rapidly evolving urban context like Kolkata, traditional gender roles clash with modern expectations, heightening the pressure on women to excel in both spheres.
Objective:
This study explores the nature and extent of role conflict among working women in Kolkata, focusing on how they manage the demands of careers and household responsibilities in contemporary Indian society. It also aims to identify socio-cultural and organizational factors contributing to these conflicts.
Methodology:
This descriptive qualitative study utilized purposive sampling based on socio-economic status (Kuppuswamy scale, 2022). In-depth interviews were conducted in private, neutral locations to allow participants to freely share their experiences. Audio recordings were transcribed and analyzed thematically to gain sociological insights into role conflict.
Results:
For lower socio-economic groups: 1. Small families ease the balance between work and home life. 2.Workplace demands are more significant than family responsibilities.3.They actively participate in decision-making. For middle socio-economic groups: 1.Significant work-family conflict is managed through better planning. 2.Sacrifices are made in one area to meet the demands of the other. 3.Decisions are made after consulting family or spouse. For higher socio-economic groups: 1.Women in government jobs experience less conflict than those in private sectors or businesses. 2.Women in private sectors or businesses make more sacrifices.3. All are involved in decision-making.
Contribution:
This study provides a nuanced understanding of role conflict among working women in Kolkata, highlighting the influence of socio-economic status. It emphasizes socio-cultural and organizational factors and calls for a supportive environment and societal mindset change to improve quality of life and promote gender equality.