"EXPLORING FAMILY ADJUSTMENT CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIES AMONG WORKING WOMEN": WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO KANPUR NAGAR

Abstract

This research delves into the family adjustment challenges faced by working women in Kanpur nagar, a city where traditional gender roles intersect with the demands of urban modernization. The study explores how these women navigate the dual pressures of professional responsibilities and familial expectations, examining the obstacles they encounter, the coping mechanisms they adopt, and the broader societal and systemic factors shaping their experiences. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates quantitative data from 200 participants across various sectors with qualitative insights derived from in-depth interviews. Key areas of
focus include work hours, household duties, stress levels, support systems, and coping strategies.
The findings reveal that entrenched gender norms significantly heighten the burden on working women, with 65% experiencing moderate to high stress due to extensive work hours coupled with additional household responsibilities. Support systems, such as family assistance, hired help, and flexible workplace policies, play a pivotal role in reducing stress levels and enhancing overall
satisfaction. However, only 25% of respondents had access to supportive workplace measures, while societal pressures and stigma surrounding career-oriented women and the use of domestic help further amplified their challenges.

This study highlights the critical need for systemic changes, including a more equitable distribution of household responsibilities, the implementation of inclusive workplace policies, and a cultural shift toward embracing women’s professional ambitions. Addressing these interconnected issues will create an environment where women can balance their personal and professional lives more effectively, fostering both individual empowerment and societal advancement.