Shiksha Samvad

Abstract

The changing socio-economic, educational, and cultural conditions of contemporary India have significantly influenced gender roles and decision-making within families. Traditional Indian families often assigned men the primary responsibility for economic decisions and women the responsibility for domestic and caregiving activities. However, increasing female education, employment, economic participation, urbanisation, and exposure to modern values have contributed to gradual changes in these patterns. The present study examines the transformation of gender roles and the distribution of decision-making power within contemporary Indian families. It focuses on participation in household finances, education and career choices, marriage-related decisions, healthcare, childrearing, and major family matters. The study also explores whether changing roles have resulted in greater gender equality or continue to coexist with traditional expectations. By analysing changing family relationships and power structures, the study seeks to understand the extent and nature of gender transformation in contemporary Indian society.

Keywords: Gender Roles, Decision-Making, Indian Families, Gender Equality, Women’s Empowerment, Family Dynamics, Social Change