Career Aspirations of the ‘Khatduh’ (Youngest Daughter) belonging to Khasi Matrilineal Society studying in Martin Luther Christian University, Shillong, Meghalaya

Abstract

Objective: To understand the career aspirations of the youngest daughter (khatduh) belonging to the Khasi Matrilineal Society, Meghalaya. Methodology: The methodology chosen should be capable of describing these linkages of career aspirations of the youngest daughter in relation to societal norms, customary laws and traditions. A mixture of both qualitative and quantitative research approaches has been adopted. Findings: The number of siblings in the family can act as a great burden to the youngest daughter as she will eventually have to take care of them in case they choose not to get married and reside in their parents’ house. This is in addition to the responsibilities of taking care of their parents, grandparents and siblings of the parents if any. The said situation has directly or unknowingly narrowed down the career aspirations of the youngest daughter, who were being hinted of their role(s) since they were young. Conclusion: The suggestions that surfaced from this study is to incorporate Career Counselling approach with cultural understanding of the client’s background, personality, family environment, keeping in mind the financial situation in which she is in. Education has therefore become an important factor which influences the traditional way of thinking amongst the youngest daughter.