Sociological Insights: Rethinking Decision-making in Evolving Patriarchal Family Structures

Abstract

This research paper delves into the complex interplay between family structures, women's roles, and their agency in decision-making within patriarchal societies. This paper focus on how traditional joint families, with their entrenched gender roles and centralized authority, limit women's participation in household choices. In contrast, nuclear families offer some hope, with greater autonomy and shared decision-making processes opening doors for challenging established norms. Marital status and employment status also emerge as key factors, with unmarried women and employed women demonstrating greater flexibility and influence. Financial autonomy further nuances the picture, showcasing both collaborative approaches and conditional independence for women. Ultimately, the distribution of decision-making power reflects the uneven terrain of gender equality, highlighting the persisting influence of patriarchal structures. This paper underscores the need for dismantling these structures and fostering truly collaborative familial environments to pave the way for a more equitable future for women.