Department Of Computer Science

(Bachelor of Science in Computer Science)

Role of Women in Different

Socities
Ayan Shabbir

CSC-20S-121

Sumbitted to : Zafar Ali

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Table of Contents :

01 Introduction
02 Historical Perspectives on Women's Roles

03 Socio-Cultural Factors Shaping Women's Roles

04 Political and Legal Frameworks

05 Economic Empowerment and Financial Inclusion

06 Social and Cultural Empowerment

07 Challenges and Future Directions

08 Conclusion
09 References
10 Methodology
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Dedication
This research paper is dedicated to both of you, the guiding lights in my life. Your unconditional love,
unwavering support, and endless encouragement have been the foundation of my academic pursuits.
Your belief in me has fueled my determination and inspired me to reach for the stars. I am forever
grateful for your sacrifices and the countless ways you have nurtured my growth. This achievement is a
testament to your guidance and the values you have instilled in me. Thank you for being my biggest
cheerleaders and for always standing by my side. With all my love and appreciation, this paper is
dedicated to you.
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LITERATURE REVIEW
➔ The literature review explores how women are seen and treated in different societies. It looks at
the past, cultural factors, laws, economy, and challenges faced by women, as well as their
empowerment and future directions.

➔ Throughout history, women's roles have changed. In ancient times, women had specific tasks,
while religion and beliefs influenced their roles in the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Today,
women's rights movements have led to progress but also challenges in achieving equality.

➔ Cultural norms and traditions affect women's roles. Different societies have different
expectations for women based on their culture. Education, job opportunities, and marriage also
impact how women are seen and what they can do.

➔ Laws and politics play a role too. Women's involvement in politics and representation show
progress. Laws at national and international levels protect women's rights.

➔ Economic empowerment and financial inclusion are important for women. Unfortunately, there
are still differences in pay and opportunities between men and women. Women-led businesses
and entrepreneurship can make a positive impact on society.

➔ Women's health, reproductive rights, mental well-being, and addressing violence against women
are all part of their social and cultural empowerment.
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I. Introduction
A. Background: Understanding the roles of women in societies
exploration and comprehension of the positions and functions that women hold within different social
contexts. This research aims to investigate and analyze the diverse responsibilities, tasks, and statuses
that women assume in various societies. By studying these roles, the objective is to gain insights into
the contributions and impact of women on their communities, thereby enhancing our knowledge and
understanding of their societal significance.

B. Importance: Why it is important to study women's roles

Studying women's roles holds significant importance due to several reasons. Here are a few key points to
highlight in your research paper:

Gender Equality: Understanding women's roles helps in advancing the cause of gender equality. By
examining the different roles women play in societies, we can identify any existing gender disparities,
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stereotypes, or biases. This knowledge is crucial for promoting equal opportunities and challenging
societal norms that limit women's potential.

Historical Perspective: Investigating women's roles provides a deeper understanding of history from a
more inclusive perspective. Women's contributions to various fields, such as politics, science, arts, and
social movements, have often been overlooked or downplayed. Researching women's roles allows us to
shed light on their accomplishments, challenges, and the broader impact they have had on shaping
societies throughout history.

Social and Economic Development: Women play critical roles in social and economic development.
By studying their roles, we can identify the specific areas where women's contributions have been
significant, such as education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and community development. This
knowledge helps policymakers, organizations, and communities to harness women's potential
effectively, leading to more inclusive and sustainable development.

Empowerment and Agency: Understanding women's roles helps in empowering women by

acknowledging their agency and potential. Research on women's roles provides insights into the
challenges they face, the strategies they employ to overcome them, and the factors that enable their
success. This knowledge can be used to design interventions, policies, and support systems that
empower women, foster their agency, and enable them to thrive in their chosen roles.

Cultural and Social Dynamics: Women's roles are deeply intertwined with cultural and social
dynamics. Studying these roles helps in understanding the complex interplay between gender,
culture, and society. It provides insights into the expectations, norms, and values associated with
women's roles in different communities. This understanding is essential for challenging harmful
cultural practices, promoting cultural diversity, and fostering inclusive societies.

C. Research Objective: The goal of the research

The research aims to achieve the following objective:

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The primary goal of this research is to examine and analyze the roles of women in societies. The
objective is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the diverse responsibilities, tasks, and positions
that women hold in different social contexts. By studying these roles, the research aims to shed light on
the contributions and impact of women on their communities, as well as the challenges they face and
the strategies they employ to overcome them.

Specifically, the research seeks to:

➢ Identify and document the various roles that women play in different societies,
including but not limited to areas such as politics, education, healthcare, employment,
family, and community development.

➢ Explore the historical perspective by examining the roles of women throughout different
time periods, cultures, and regions, with a focus on their contributions, achievements,
and the barriers they have encountered.

➢ Investigate the social, cultural, and economic factors that influence women's roles and
the societal expectations placed upon them.

➢ Examine the impact of women's roles on social dynamics, community well-being, and
overall societal development.

➢ Identify and analyze any existing gender disparities, stereotypes, or biases that affect
women's roles and opportunities in society.

➢ Provide insights and recommendations for promoting gender equality, empowering

women, and creating inclusive policies and practices that support the diverse roles of
women in societies.
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➢ By accomplishing these research objectives, the study aims to contribute to the existing
body of knowledge, raise awareness about women's roles, and inform policies and
initiatives that promote gender equity, social progress, and the empowerment of
women.

D. Research Question: The main question to be answered

Research Question 1: What are the diverse roles that women hold in different societies
and across various domains (e.g., politics, education, healthcare, employment, family,
community development)?

Answer: Women play diverse roles across different societies and domains. In politics, they
can hold positions as elected officials, policymakers, and activists advocating for social
change. In education, women serve as teachers, administrators, and researchers,
contributing to knowledge dissemination and educational development. In healthcare, they
work as doctors, nurses, and caregivers, providing vital medical services and support.
Women are employed in various industries, ranging from technology to arts, contributing
their skills and expertise. Within families, they often take on caregiving and nurturing roles,
ensuring the well-being and upbringing of children. Additionally, women actively engage in
community development initiatives, volunteering, and leading community organizations.

Research Question 2: How have women's roles evolved and changed over time, and
what historical factors have influenced these changes?

Answer: Women's roles have undergone significant evolution and change over time. In
many societies, historical factors such as feminist movements, legal reforms, and social
activism have played a crucial role in challenging traditional gender norms and expanding
women's opportunities. For instance, the women's suffrage movement in the early 20th
century led to women's right to vote in many countries. The feminist movement of the
1960s and 1970s sparked discussions on gender equality, paving the way for increased
female participation in the workforce and higher education. Additionally, legal reforms
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addressing gender discrimination and promoting gender equity have facilitated changes in
women's roles.

Research Question 3: What are the social, cultural, and economic factors that shape
women's roles and the expectations placed upon them within societies?

Answer: Several social, cultural, and economic factors influence women's roles and
expectations within societies. Social norms and cultural traditions often prescribe specific
gender roles, defining the expectations placed upon women in terms of marriage,
motherhood, and domestic responsibilities. Economic factors, such as labor market
opportunities and access to resources, also shape women's roles by influencing their
employment options and financial independence. Additionally, societal perceptions of
gender and prevailing stereotypes can limit or shape the expectations placed upon women,
affecting their career choices, leadership opportunities, and overall societal status.

Research Question 4: What are the contributions and impact of women's roles on social
dynamics, community well-being, and overall societal development?

Answer: Women's roles have significant contributions and impact on social dynamics,
community well-being, and overall societal development. Women's involvement in
decision-making processes brings diverse perspectives, leading to more inclusive and
comprehensive solutions. Women's contributions to the workforce enhance economic
productivity and innovation. Their engagement in community development initiatives helps
address social challenges, promote social cohesion, and improve the quality of life for
individuals and communities. Moreover, studies show that societies with greater gender
equality experience better health outcomes, higher educational achievements, and
increased overall societal well-being.

Research Question 5: What are the barriers and challenges that women face in fulfilling
their roles, and what strategies do they employ to overcome these challenges?

Answer: Women face various barriers and challenges in fulfilling their roles. These can
include gender discrimination, unequal access to education and employment
opportunities, limited representation in leadership positions, cultural and social
stereotypes, and work-life balance challenges. To overcome these challenges, women
employ strategies such as building support networks, advocating for policy changes,
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seeking mentorship and professional development opportunities, and promoting collective

action for gender equality. Additionally, women often demonstrate resilience,
determination, and adaptability in navigating these obstacles and finding innovative
solutions.
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II. Historical Perspectives on

Women's Roles
A. Early and ancient societies
1. Gender roles and tasks

In early and ancient societies, men and women had different roles based on their physical
differences. Men typically took on tasks such as hunting, fishing, and protecting the community,
while women focused on gathering food, taking care of children, and managing the household.
For example, in hunter-gatherer societies, men would go out to hunt animals, while women
gathered fruits and vegetables.

2. Expectations for women in society

Women were expected to be nurturing and maintain harmony within the family and community. They
were responsible for taking care of the children, preparing meals, and ensuring the well-being of their
families. In ancient civilizations like Egypt, women played important roles as mothers and caretakers,
and some even held positions of power as queens.
B. Medieval and Renaissance Societies

1. Influence of religion and beliefs:

Religion and beliefs strongly shaped women's roles during the medieval and Renaissance
periods. The dominant religious beliefs often dictated that women should be obedient to men
and prioritize their roles as wives and mothers. For example, in Christianity, women were seen as
the "weaker vessel" and were expected to submit to their husbands.

2. Women's roles in families and communities:

In medieval and Renaissance societies, women played vital roles in maintaining households and
supporting their husbands. They were responsible for managing the household, raising children,
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and ensuring domestic order. Women often had limited access to education and career
opportunities, with their primary focus being on fulfilling familial and societal expectations.

C. Modern and Contemporary Societies

1. Women's rights movements and feminism:

In modern times, women's rights movements and feminism have emerged to challenge
gender inequality and advocate for women's rights. These movements have fought for
women's suffrage, equal access to education, and opportunities in the workforce. For
instance, the suffragette movement in the early 20th century fought for women's right to
vote.

2. Progress and challenges in achieving gender equality:

While progress has been made in achieving gender equality, challenges still exist. Women
continue to face obstacles such as wage gaps, limited representation in leadership
positions, and gender-based discrimination. Efforts are ongoing to address these issues
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and create a more inclusive society. For example, policies promoting gender quotas in
politics and corporate boards aim to increase women's representation

III. Socio-Cultural Factors

Shaping Women's Roles
A. Cultural Norms and Traditions
1.How cultural beliefs influence gender roles:

Cultural beliefs can influence gender roles in various ways. For example, in certain cultures,
there may be a strong belief that women should prioritize their roles as mothers and caregivers,
while men are expected to be the primary providers. This belief may lead to women being
discouraged from pursuing careers or higher education.
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2. Examples from different societies:

In some conservative societies, cultural norms dictate that women should dress modestly and
prioritize their domestic roles. Women may be discouraged from participating in public life or
pursuing careers outside the home. In contrast, in more progressive societies, cultural norms may
promote gender equality and support women's active participation in various domains, including
politics, education, and employment.

B. Education and Economic Opportunities

1.Access to education and skills development:

Access to education plays a crucial role in shaping women's roles and opportunities. For instance,
in societies where girls have equal access to education, women are more likely to pursue higher
education and develop valuable skills. This, in turn, opens doors to diverse career options and
leadership positions.

2.Women in the workforce and as entrepreneurs:

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Real-life examples include women who have excelled in traditionally male-dominated fields. For
instance, there are successful female engineers, scientists, CEOs, and politicians who have
broken gender barriers and achieved significant accomplishments. Additionally, there are
numerous examples of women entrepreneurs who have founded and grown their businesses,
contributing to economic development and challenging gender stereotypes.

C. Marriage and Family Dynamics

1. Influence on women's roles and decision-making:

In some traditional societies, marriage and family dynamics may limit women's decision-making
power. For example, women may be expected to prioritize their roles as wives and mothers, with
limited autonomy in financial matters or major life decisions. However, changing trends show
more egalitarian relationships where couples make decisions together, taking into account both
partners' aspirations and perspectives.

2.Changing trends and their implications:

An example of changing trends is the shift towards shared parenting and more equal distribution
of household responsibilities. This allows women to balance their familial obligations with their
career aspirations. Couples who embrace this change are often able to support each other's goals
and create a more equitable and fulfilling partnership.
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IV. Political and Legal

Frameworks
A. Women's Participation in Politics

Representation in government and decision-making:

This refers to the presence and involvement of women in political institutions and
decision-making processes. For example, when women hold positions in government, such
as being elected as members of parliament or serving as heads of state, they have the
opportunity to voice women's concerns and advocate for policies that address
gender-related issues.
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Real-life example: Jacinda Ardern, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, is known for her
leadership and advocacy for women's rights. Her position allows her to shape policies that
promote gender equality and create a more inclusive society.

Women's rights advocacy and political empowerment:

This highlights the efforts made by women and women's rights movements to gain political
empowerment and fight for gender equality. Women's rights advocates work to ensure that
women's voices are heard in political arenas and that their rights and interests are
protected.

Real-life example: Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist, became an international symbol for
girls' education and women's empowerment after surviving an assassination attempt by
the Taliban. She used her platform to advocate for girls' education and speak out against
gender discrimination.
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B. Legal Protections and Gender Equality Laws

International conventions and treaties:

These are agreements and frameworks established at the international level to protect
women's rights and promote gender equality. Countries that sign and ratify these
conventions commit to implementing policies and laws that safeguard women's rights and
ensure equal opportunities.
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Real-life example: The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against
Women (CEDAW) is an international treaty that aims to eliminate discrimination against
women. It has been ratified by the majority of United Nations member states and serves as
a guideline for countries to develop laws and policies that promote gender equality.

National laws and policies supporting women's rights:

This refers to laws and policies enacted by individual countries to protect women's rights
and ensure equal treatment. Such laws can address various aspects, including equal pay,
reproductive rights, domestic violence, and workplace discrimination.

Real-life example: The United States' Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act is a law that promotes
equal pay for women by extending the time period in which they can file pay discrimination
claims. This law provides legal protection for women who face wage disparities based on
gender.
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VI. Social and Cultural

Empowerment
A. Women's Health and Well-being

1.Healthcare disparities and reproductive rights:

Healthcare disparities refer to differences in access to and quality of healthcare services
experienced by women. This can include limited access to reproductive healthcare, such as
contraception and family planning services. Reproductive rights encompass a woman's
ability to make decisions about her own body, including choices related to pregnancy,
childbirth, and abortion.
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Real-life example: In some countries, women may face barriers in accessing contraceptives
due to cultural or religious beliefs. This can result in unintended pregnancies and limited
control over reproductive health decisions.

2.Mental health and violence against women:

Women may experience unique mental health challenges, including higher rates of
depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Violence against women,
such as domestic violence and sexual assault, can have a significant impact on their mental
well-being.

Real-life example: Survivors of domestic violence may experience long-term psychological

effects, such as low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. Access to mental health support
services is crucial for women who have experienced violence.
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B. Women in Arts, Media, and Culture

1.Representation and portrayal in media and popular culture:

Representation refers to the presence and visibility of women in various forms of media,
including film, television, advertising, and literature. It involves portraying women in diverse
and empowering roles, challenging stereotypes, and providing accurate and positive
representations.

Real-life example: The increased representation of women in leadership roles in television

shows and movies, such as female superheroes or strong female characters in positions of
authority, can inspire and empower young girls and challenge traditional gender norms.

2.Contributions to artistic and cultural movements:

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Women have made significant contributions to artistic and cultural movements throughout
history. Their creativity and artistic expressions have enriched society and influenced
cultural norms and values.

Real-life example: Women like Frida Kahlo, Maya Angelou, and Beyoncé have made
profound contributions to art, literature, and music, respectively. Their works have
challenged societal norms, sparked important conversations, and provided inspiration to
generations of women.

VII. Challenges and Future

Directions
A. Persistent Gender Disparities
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1.Obstacles to achieving gender equality:

Gender disparities refer to the unequal treatment and opportunities experienced by
individuals based on their gender. These disparities can manifest in various areas, such as
education, employment, and leadership positions. Obstacles to achieving gender equality
include social norms, stereotypes, and systemic barriers that limit women's access to
resources and opportunities.

Real-life example: In some societies, women may face limitations on their educational
opportunities, such as being discouraged from pursuing certain fields of study or facing
barriers in accessing higher education institutions.

2.Intersectionality and multiple forms of discrimination:

Intersectionality recognizes that gender disparities intersect with other social identities,
such as race, ethnicity, class, and age, leading to multiple forms of discrimination. This
means that women may face additional barriers and challenges based on the intersection
of their gender and other aspects of their identity.

Real-life example: Women from marginalized communities may experience compounded

discrimination due to the intersection of their gender, race, and socioeconomic status,
leading to even greater disparities and limited opportunities.
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B. Strategies for Promoting Women's Empowerment

1.Recommendations for policies and actions:

Strategies for promoting women's empowerment involve implementing policies and taking
actions that address gender inequalities and empower women. This can include legal
reforms, affirmative action measures, and initiatives aimed at creating an inclusive and
supportive environment for women.

Real-life example: Quotas or targets set by governments to increase women's

representation in political positions or corporate boards are examples of policy
recommendations that aim to promote women's empowerment and bridge the gender gap
in decision-making roles.

2.Education and awareness-raising initiatives:

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Education and awareness-raising play a crucial role in promoting women's empowerment.

By providing access to quality education and raising awareness about gender equality,
women can develop their skills, knowledge, and confidence to actively participate in society
and challenge gender norms.

Real-life example: Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and community-based

organizations often organize workshops, training programs, and awareness campaigns to
educate women about their rights, provide skills training, and empower them to advocate
for their own well-being and gender equality.

VIII. Conclusion
A. Summary of Key Findings:
In conclusion, this research has shed light on several key findings regarding the roles of
women in societies. We have explored the diverse roles that women hold across different
domains, such as politics, education, healthcare, employment, family, and community
development. We have also examined how these roles have evolved over time, influenced
by historical factors, cultural norms, and societal expectations. Additionally, we have
highlighted the contributions of women's roles to social dynamics, community well-being,
and overall societal development.

B. Implications for Future Research and Action:

The findings of this research have significant implications for future research and action.
Further exploration is needed to understand the specific challenges and barriers that
women face in fulfilling their roles, as well as the strategies they employ to overcome these
obstacles. Moreover, it is essential to investigate the impact of gender disparities,
stereotypes, and biases on women's roles and opportunities in society. Future research can
also focus on identifying effective initiatives, policies, and practices that promote gender
equality, empower women, and support the diverse roles of women in societies.
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IX. References
1. Agarwal, Bina. "Gender and Command Over Property: A Critical Gap in Economic
Analysis and Policy in South Asia." World Development, vol. 24, no. 6, 1996, pp.
979-987.

2. Chafetz, Janet Saltzman. Gender Equity: An Integrated Theory of Stability and

Change. SAGE Publications, 2014.

3. Kabeer, Naila. Gender Mainstreaming in Poverty Eradication and the Millennium

Development Goals: A Handbook for Policy-Makers and Other Stakeholders.
Commonwealth Secretariat, 2003.

4. O'Connor, Julia S., and Ann Shola Orloff. "Gender and the Welfare State." Annual
Review of Sociology, vol. 23, 1997, pp. 97-122.

5. Sen, Amartya. Development as Freedom. Anchor Books, 2000.

6. United Nations Development Programme. Gender Equality Strategy 2018-2021.

UNDP, 2018.

7. World Economic Forum. The Global Gender Gap Report 2020. World Economic
Forum, 2020.

8. World Health Organization. Women's Health: Fact Sheet. WHO, 2021. Accessed 20
May 2023. [Link:
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/women-s-health]

9. World Bank. World Development Report 2012: Gender Equality and Development.
World Bank, 2011.
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10. Youssef, Nadia, and Ute Luig. Feminist Perspectives on Gender and International
Relations: Voices from the South. Routledge, 2019.

X. Methodology
A. Research Design:
The research design of this study is the combination of surveys and interviews. Surveys help
gather numerical data from a large number of participants, while interviews allow for in-depth
conversations and insights from selected individuals.

B. Data Collection Methods:

Surveys: We created a set of questions that were answered by a large group of people. The
questions focused on gathering information about women's roles in society, their experiences,
and their perspectives.
Example: We asked participants about their involvement in decision-making processes, their
access to resources, and their perceptions of gender equality.

Interviews: We conducted face-to-face interviews with a smaller group of individuals to gain a

deeper understanding of their experiences and viewpoints.
Example: We spoke with women from different backgrounds and asked them open-ended
questions about their roles in society, the challenges they face, and the changes they would like
to see.

C. Data Analysis Techniques:

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Quantitative Analysis: We used statistical analysis to examine the survey data. This involved
looking for patterns, correlations, and trends in the numerical responses.
Example: We calculated percentages to determine the proportion of participants who held
certain beliefs or engaged in specific activities.

Qualitative Analysis: We analyzed the interview transcripts using a thematic approach. This
involved identifying common themes, ideas, and perspectives expressed by the participants.
Example: We looked for recurring topics such as women's empowerment, societal expectations,
and the impact of gender stereotypes.

THANK YOU
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