Changing Gender Roles and Expectations in Modern Society: A Case Study in Mysore City in Karnataka

Abstract

India’s gender roles have evolved due to social, economic, and cultural changes. Greater access to education and employment empowers women, enhances decision-making, challenges traditional norms, and promotes equality. These shifts enable women’s active participation in the workforce and society, fostering broader acceptance of diverse roles and advancing a more inclusive society. This study examines the evolving gender roles and expectations of women in modern society, with a focus on Mysore, Karnataka. It explores how education and employment opportunities contribute to the transformation of traditional gender norms, enabling women to participate more actively in economic, social, and familial spheres. A sample of 60 women from Mysore was surveyed using a structured questionnaire, and data were analyzed using Chi-Square tests to assess the impact of education and employment on changing gender roles. The findings reveal that higher educational attainment and increased participation in the workforce significantly enhance women’s autonomy, decision-making power, and societal influence, challenging conventional norms. The study underscores the importance of promoting gender-sensitive policies and interventions to support women’s empowerment and foster equitable participation in all areas of life.