“Her Silent Struggle”: Unveiling Gender Roles and Mental Health of Married Working Women

Abstract

The ratio of women in the workforce in India has increased due to various factors, including economic growth, improved education, and increased gender sensitivity. However, the traditional gender roles still persist and frames women primarily as caregivers and nurturers, responsible for managing household chores alongside their jobs. This study examines the lived experiences of married working Indian females from Generation Y and their perceived psychological stress resulting from the prescribed gender roles. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 6 females. Using interpretive phenomenological analysis, the study has explored their significant outlook towards life. The study reveals the unfading influence of traditional gender roles on the work-life balance, dual role-conflict, and eventually on the psychological well-being of the participants. The findings contribute to understanding the complexities of gender roles in the present Indian society.