Relationship among Caste Identity, Chastity Beliefs and Psychological Distress in Urban and Rural Rajasthan

Abstract

The socio-cultural fabric of Rajasthan distinctly values the institution of caste. Additionally, caste is related to patriarchal beliefs which shape the life of women in varied ways. In this context, the aim of the present study was to assess the relationship among perceived caste identity, chastity beliefs of family and the psychological distress experienced by upper caste women in rural and urban parts of Rajasthan. Participants (n=103) filled questionnaires on perceived caste identity, chastity beliefs of family and the psychological distress experienced by them. Mean, standard deviations and correlation scores were obtained to analyse the data. The results suggest a significant relationship between perceived caste identity and chastity beliefs of family among upper caste women in rural (r= 0.38, p<0.01) and urban (r=0.66, p<0.01) parts of Rajasthan. Furthermore, a significant positive relationship among perceived caste identity beliefs, chastity beliefs of family and self-reported depressive symptoms was found for urban women. Whereas, for rural women a significant negative relationship was found between perceived caste identity beliefs of family and self-reported depressive symptoms. Explanations such as maintenance of caste purity and viewing women as a site of family honor provides an understanding of the results. The detailed explanations are present in the discussion section. The study holds implications for the development of socio-culturally sensitive mental health care and psycho-educational interventions programs.