dimensions of empowerment; relationship with...

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CHAPTER-6

DIMENSIONS OF EMPOWERMENT;

RELATIONSHIP WITH SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS

Empowerment as discussed by Kabeer (2001) is “the expansion in

people's ability to make strategic life choices in a context where this ability was

previously denied to them”. She describes this process in terms of “thinking

outside the system” and challenging the status quo. This chapter intends to

examine the dimensions of empowerment among kerala women IT professionals

working in Technopark. It also attempts to find out the socio economic factors

influencing their empowerment .The level of empowerment enjoyed by the

respondents in their personal, professional, economical, familial/interpersonal and

socio-cultural sphere are subjected to scrutiny. The different aspects of

empowerment such as literacy & education, economic role outside the family, &

earning power, property rights, access to and control over the resources, control

over decision making etc are measured using indicators in potential and

operational level such as:

Personal sphere

• Pursuit of hobbies and interests.

• Exercising choice regarding dressing pattern

• Exercising choice regarding spouse selection

• Autonomy in taking decisions in matters related to marriage, family, job

and household affairs.

• Access and control over domestic resources.

• Satisfactory health status related to nature of work in IT.S

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Socio-Cultural sphere

• Visits to places of worship

• Participation in family functions

• Outings with family

• Access or ownership of social status symbol

Economic sphere

• Autonomy in decision making regarding economic transactions, savings

and investments.

• Access and control over expenditure, savings and investments.

Familial/Interpersonal sphere

• Freedom from authority and domination of same generational males.

• Absence of restriction from family regarding job related mobility.

Professional sphere

• Technical knowledge.

• Autonomy in work

• Working under pressure and meeting targets on time

• Working flexibly with respect to time and multi tasking

• Stress induced by work practices

• Satisfactory health status related to nature of work in IT industry

• Sexual harassment at work place

The extent to which the empowerment indicators are satisfied with adequate

freedom, independence and competence in the household, community, and

broader arenas is examined in this chapter. A woman’s level of empowerment

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will vary, sometimes enormously, according to other criteria such as her class or

caste, ethnicity, relative wealth, age, family position etc and any analysis of

women’s power or lack of it must appreciate these other contributory dimensions.

Similarly, the meaning of any empowerment indicator will always depend on

its interrelationships with other variables.

Hence, the study also focuses on the socio economic factors that influence the

empowerment of women IT professionals of Technopark. For the purpose, the

different socio economic factors such as:

• Age of respondents

• Marital status

• Income of the respondents

• Occupational designation

• Type of family

• Religion

are cross analysed with empowerment indicators based on contextual relevance.

6.1 Personal sphere

6.1.1 Pursuit of hobbies and interests.

Table: 6.1.1a

Distribution of respondents based on pursuit of hobbies and interest

Reaction of respondents Frequency Percent Yes 198 66.0 No 99 33.0 Not Revealing 3 1.0 Total 300 100.0

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The above table reveals that a majority of 66 percent of respondents are pursuing

their hobbies and interests while 33 percent responded that they are not able to

pursue their hobbies and interests. They complained about the time constrains

brought about by the busy work schedule of IT industry. Moreover they were

unable to assign priority to their hobbies and interests while trying to do justice to

the family responsibilities.

As Sharma says, ‘however empowered they are or feel, almost all women IT

professionals still give their families higher priority than their work and- like

nearly all women in India and much of the rest of the world- they do not regard

paid work as any part of women’s normal duties in the way that is for men’

(1986:129). Hence in the midst of the efforts to fulfill family responsibilities, they

are at a loss to do justice to their hobbies and interests.

Table: 6.1.1b

Pursuit of hobbies and interests and relationship with socio economic factors

Socio economic

factor Maximum pursuit of hobbies

and interestsPercentage of

pursuit Age 31 to 35 years 78

Religion Hindu 70.4

Marital status Married 72.3

Type of family Extended families 88

Income Rs 50,000/- to Rs 100000/- 78.5

Occupational

Designation

Senior IT professional technical

level 2

75

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While analyzing the relationship of the variable with marital status, it was found

that a high majority of 72.3 percent of the married respondents were pursuing

their hobbies and interests while only 59.4 percent of the unmarried respondents

were able to pursue the same. In spite of factors such as household duties and

catering to the needs of family members, pursuit of hobbies and interests should

be necessarily perceived as sign of empowerment.

A religion wise analysis showed that among the 183 Hindu respondents, a

sizeable majority of 70.4 percent was pursuing their hobbies and interests and this

was followed by 60 percent of Christian respondents who were able to pursue the

same. On the contrary, only 50 percent of the Muslim respondents were pursuing

their hobbies and interests which owes to the comparatively conservative,

restrictive and dominant family atmosphere which insists on subordination of

personal interests to family welfare. Exploring the relationship of the variable

with type of family, it was found that a high majority of 88 percent of the

respondents who had extended families were pursuing their hobbies and interests

which was followed by 67 percent of respondents living in joint families. Among

the respondents who lived in nuclear families, only 63 percent was able to pursue

their hobbies and interests which is comparatively the lowest percent. From the

finding it can be inferred that respondents who live in extended and joint families

are getting assistance from other family members in meeting domestic demands

which allows them to pursue their hobbies and interests. The finding also points

to the lack of adequate domestic assistance faced by respondents belonging to

nuclear families.

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The percentage of pursuit of hobbies and interests among respondents holding

different occupational designations did not show any sharp variation even though

Senior IT professional technical level 2 were the group who had a highest of 75

percent of respondents pursuing their interests. It needs to be noted that they

being seniors belong to higher age group above 30 years, have good job

experience which ranges from 5 to 10 years, have good pay above Rs 50,000/-

and have grown up children who are able to cater to their own needs to a

considerable extent.

A similar result was obtained when the variable was analysed with respect to age

group of the respondents. A high majority of 78 percent of the respondents

belonging to the age group 31-35 years were the lot who pursued their hobbies

and interests to the maximum. Similarly when the relationship of the variable with

income level was analysed it was found that the privilege was enjoyed maximum

by 78.5 percent of respondents who earned an income between Rs 50000/- to Rs

100000/- and this was closely followed by 75.6 percent of respondents who

earned an income above Rs 100000/- per month.

Thus it needs to be inferred that better income, better job competence and

favourable family circumstances are the factors that permit the respondents to

have their favourite life choices.

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6.1.2 Exercise of choice regarding dressing pattern

Table: 6.1.2a Distribution of respondents regarding choice of dress pattern

Criteria of choice Frequency Percent

Fashion 31 10.3

Convenience 219 73.0

Convention 12 4.0

Fashion and Convenience 25 8.3

Fashion and Convention 4 1.3

Convenience and Convention 4 1.3

All the three reasons 5 1.7

Total 300 100.0 From the above table it can read that a high majority of 73 percent of respondents

give importance to their own convenience while choosing a dress pattern.

Respondents who consider fashion as the criteria for choosing dress pattern come

only up to 10.3 percent. Only 4 percent of the respondents bother about

convention while selecting a dressing style. During depth interviews, the

respondents revealed that they are well aware about the fashion trends as well as

the dress code that is socially preferable. But while dressing up they felt

comfortable only if they found the attire convenient enough to satisfy their

particular social role. Considering convenience as the criteria of choice, points out

the importance assigned by the respondents to personal preference rather than

conforming themselves to social norm or fashion trends. This is of course an

indicator of empowerment and this need to be interpreted that the respondents are

exercising autonomy in decision making regarding dressing pattern.

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Apart from personal choice regarding dressing pattern, women IT professionals

are also obliged to follow certain dress codes while they are at their office. In the

words of one of the respondents, ‘We have dress code in office- formals from

Monday to Thursday and casuals on Friday. But it varies from branch to branch.

When we are at our working place, we really have to be prim and proper-

anything wrong means your lead or somebody else will say something’. In a

sense the industry norms are inculcating a neat and proper dressing style on their

employees but if taken in another sense, cultural training and dress code can also

be seen as subtle ways in which workers are disciplined to make them ideal for

the software industry (Mukherjee 2008).

Table: 6.1.2b

Choice of dress pattern and relationship with socio economic factors.

Socio economic

factor Choice of convenient dressing

style Percentage of

pursuit

Age 25 to 30 years 74

Religion Hindu 77

Marital status Married 74

Type of family Extended families 77

Income Less than Rs 10,000/- 81

Occupational

Designation

Junior IT professional

Managerial/ Technical Level-1

76.4

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To analyse the influence of socio- economic factors on choice of dress pattern, the

relationship of religion and criteria regarding choice of dress pattern was

subjected to scrutiny. The findings revealed that a high majority of 77 percent of

Hindu respondents gave importance to convenience while choosing dressing

pattern and this group was followed by 67.6 percent Christians. On comparison, it

was also found that it was Christians who were more fascinated by fashion trends.

An analysis of choice of dress pattern in relation to type of family disclosed that

77 percent of the respondents belonging to extended families were the group

which assigned more importance to convenience in dressing and they were

closely followed by 76 percent of respondents hailing from joint families. A

comparison among the groups also revealed that fashion was more followed by

respondents from nuclear families. Similarly, respondents with urban locality of

residence had more inclination towards fashionable dressing and this can be

explained in terms of more exposure of urban residents towards media,

advertisements and consumerism.

When the role played by marital status was examined, no sharp variations could

be found among married and unmarried respondents as 74 percent of married

respondents and 72 percent of unmarried respondents assigned importance to

convenience in dressing.

Occupational designation was also studied in the context, which revealed that

only slight variations exist in the percentage of respondents holding different

occupational designations with regard to choosing dress pattern based on

convenience. Even then, respondents designated as Junior IT professional

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Managerial/ Technical Level-1 were the group who gave maximum priority to

convenience (76.4 percent). On comparison, it was also found that the same group

was more interested in fashionable dressing coinciding with their age group

between 20 to 25 years.

Age wise analysis proved that youngsters belonging to the age group 20 to 25

years were comparatively more interested in fashion while respondents belonging

to the age group 25 to 30 years gave maximum stress to convenient dressing.

Income wise analysis discloses that a high majority of 81 percent of respondents

who had income below Rs 10000/- were advocating maximum for convenient

dressing and they were followed by respondents earning income between Rs

10000/- and Rs 25000/-per month. Another striking finding is that 42 percent of

the respondents earning between Rs 50000/- and Rs 10000/- per month were the

group which showed maximum interest in fashion.

Thus from the above findings it can be inferred that regarding dressing pattern, a

high majority of respondents are empowered enough to assign importance to

personal preference irrespective of the pressure induced by fashion and social

norm although factors such as income, age, type of family and locality of

residence act as powerful determinants in deciding the criteria for choosing dress

pattern.

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6.1.3 Exercise of choice regarding spouse selection

Table: 6.1.3a Distribution of married respondents based on spouse selection.

Mode of marriage

Frequency Registered marriage Traditional-style marriage with relative and friends’ participation

Marriage Details

Frequency

With parental consent

Without parental consent

Love

marriage

14

(9%)

3

(23.5%)

2

(11.7%)

9

(64.7%)

Inter-caste 8(58.8%)

Inter-religious 2(11.7%)

Within same caste & religion

4(29.4%)

Arranged marriage

43 (29%)

2

(6%)

0 41 (94.2%)

Inter-caste 5(11.5%) Inter-religious 1(3%)


37(84.6%)

Love cum arranged marriage

with active parent

support

92 (62%)

12 (12.7%)

0 80 (87.2%)

Inter-caste 13(13.6%)

Inter-religious 7 (8%)


72 (78%)

The above table reveals that among the 149 married respondents, a high majority

of 62 percent had love cum arranged marriage with active parental support. In

some cases, parents supported their choice which seemed to them as genuine

while in some other cases, women got the opportunity to know better, love and

marry the person who was suggested by their parents. Fuller and Narasimhan

(2008) have also found in their study that women IT professionals are confident

of their value as potential partners and hence are sure about their parent’s ability

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to find them good husbands. Most of them are also confident that they will have a

full say in the selection process so that no unwanted person will be forced upon

them. While 12.7 percent of them had registered marriage with parental consent,

an exceptionally high majority of them (87.2 percent) had traditional style of

marriage with the participation of relatives and friends. Among the respondents

who had love cum arranged marriage, 13.6 percent married out of caste, 8 percent

married out of religion while a high majority of 78 percent married within same

caste and religion. Obviously, marrying within one’s caste and religion has

greater social recognition and support although the person challenges the family

authority in taking decision regarding marriage. Again, among the married

respondents, while 29 percent conformed to arranged marriage, 9 percent

preferred to have love marriage which is a smaller but a significant percentage.

Among them, 64.7 percent had marriage in traditional style in the presence of

friends and relatives who favoured the marriage.

Among the respondents who had love marriage, 29.4 percent married within same

caste and religion while 11.7 percent had inter religious and 58.8 percent had

inter-caste marriage. Executing a love marriage against the social norm indeed

requires greater poise, courage and persistence but implementing a love cum

arranged marriage with active parental and social support should be seen more as

an indicator of personal empowerment. In addition, implementing a love cum

arranged marriage outside one’s caste and religion should be considered as the

most empowered scenario. The study discloses that out of the 92 love cum

arranged marriages held with parental support, 20 were inter-caste and inter-

religious. Here it should be interpreted that this group of respondents have had

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upper hand in the power struggle as being able to convince and persuade the

social world around them to execute their choice with active social support.

Table: 6.1.3b

Distribution of unmarried respondents based on choice regarding spouse

selection.

Preference Frequency Percent

Love marriage 20 13.2

Arranged marriage 8 5.2

Love cum arranged marriage 123 81.4

Willingness to marry without parental consent

120 79.4

Willingness to marry out of one’s caste and religion without parental consent

58 38.4

The above table discloses that among 151 unmarried respondents, only a small

group (5.2 percent) prefer arranged marriage. This is in contrast to the findings

put forward by Upadhyaya and Vasavi (2008) which states that most women IT

professionals prefer conventional arranged marriages. A high majority of 81.4

percent prefer love cum arranged marriage as they expect their choice to be

approved and supported by family and society which is the ideal and most

desirable condition. Moreover, as mentioned by Upadhyaya and Vasavi (2008)

they are also aware about the family support structures they need to continue their

job in IT industry. Yet a high majority of 79.4 percent was willing to marry

without parental consent upholding their personal choice.

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Table: 6.1.3c Spouse selection and relationship with socio economic factors.

Socio economic factor

Distribution of married respondents

Distribution of unmarried

respondents

Maximum intercaste/inter-religious marriages

Willingness to marry out of caste and religion without parental consent

Age 20-25 years(72 percent)

20-25years

(79 percent)

Religion Hindu(55.2 percent) Hindu (55 percent)

Type of family Nuclear(55.2 percent)\ Nuclear (70 percent)

Education of respondents

BCA/B.Tech(36.8percent) B.Tech (34.4 percent)

Occupational Designation

Junior IT professional Manegerial/ Technical Level-1(42 percent)

Junior IT professional Manegerial/ Technical Level-1(36 percent)

Income Rs 10,000/-to Rs 25000/-

(55.2 percent)

Rs 10,000/-to Rs 25000/-

(62 percent)

When asked about their willingness to marry out of one’s caste and religion

without parental consent, only 38.4 percent responded positively. Though the

percentage is comparatively low, this group of respondents should be perceived as

most empowered, as they are the lot who are confident enough to defend their

personal preference, as being ready to implement their decision and carry out their

marriage outside caste and religion even without parental consent, invalidating the

social support of their family and relatives. They reflect strong individual

orientation rather than apprehensive social conformation.

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An analysis of the group of married respondents who have had maximum

inter-caste/inter-religious marriages in relation to the different socio-economic

factors is undertook to examine the various factors that influence their

empowerment. The above table shows that a majority of 72 percent of the

respondents who have married out of their caste and religion belong to the age

group between 20-25 years. Among them, a majority of 52.2 percent are Hindus.

It is also striking to note that no love cum arranged marriages is held among

Muslim respondents which reflect the orthodox mentality of the community. It is

seen that respondents hailing from nuclear families are more into inter-caste and

inter-religious marriages. Absence of influence from grandparents advocating for

adherence towards caste and religious affiliations may be facilitating the

respondents to think outside such social restrictions. When the educational

qualification of the group of respondents was analysed, a majority of 36.8percent

of them either had a degree of B.Tech or BCA. Technical knowledge in the field

of Information Technology indeed makes the respondents academically and

financially confident to implement their personal choice even revoking the

prevalent social norms. A majority of 42 percent had their occupational

designation as Junior IT professional Managerial/ Technical Level-1 which is

very much explicit from their age group and years of experience in the IT Field.

This naturally explains the income of majority of 55.2 percent of the respondents

which falls between Rs 10,000/-to Rs 25000/-.

Similarly, when the choice of unmarried respondents with regard to spouse

selection was analysed, in relation to the different socio economic factors, it was

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found that majority of the respondents who are willing to marry out of caste and

religion without parental consent are Hindus (55 percent) who belong to the age

group between 20-25 years (79 percent). A majority of 70 percent of them hail

from nuclear families which is conducive for opting inter-caste and inter-religious

marriages. It is the respondents with B.Tech degree who are most willing to marry

out of caste and religion without parental consent and as discussed earlier,

professional competence adds to their confidence in prioritizing their personal

choice. Similar to married respondents, majority of this group of respondents are

designated as Junior IT professional Managerial/ Technical Level-1earning an

income between Rs 10000/- to Rs 25000/-.

Thus, while analysing the decision and willingness of married and unmarried

respondents towards inter-caste and inter-religious marriages in relation to socio-

economic factors, it is strikingly found that both groups of respondents with

similar view points, share common socio- economic status with respect to age,

religion, type of family, educational qualification, income and occupational

designation although variations persist in percentages.

6.1.4 Role played in taking decisions within the family

Table: 6.1.4 a Distribution of respondents based on decision making within the family

Nature of role Frequency Percent

Active 230 76.7

Passive 62 20.7

No role 8 2.7

Total 300 100.0

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The above table shows that a majority of 76.7 percent of the respondents play

active role in decision making within the family while 20.7 percent play only a

passive role. Among the respondents, a few of them which come up to 2.7 percent

disclosed that they have no role in decision making within the family. The role

played by them in relation to socio-economic factors can be looked upon for a

better analysis.

Table: 6.1.4b

Role in decision making and relationship with socio economic factors.

Socio economic factor Active role in decision making within the family

Percentage of respondents


Religion Hindu 82.5


Type of family Nuclear 77.9

Education of respondents MCA 82

Income Rs 25,000/- to Rs 50,000/- 86.6

Order of Birth Single child 89

When the role played by the respondents in decision making was analysed in

relation to socio-economic factors, it is found that majority of the respondents

who play an active role belong to the age group between 25 to 30 years. When the

marital status was analysed, a high majority of 80.4 percent of the married women

are playing an active role in decision making within the family and they are

closely followed by 73 percent of the unmarried women. Analysis of the order of

birth brought to light that an exceptionally high majority of 89 percent of the

respondents who are actively involved in the decision making are single child to

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their parents. Being the only child, they are more involved in family matters and

while acting as a decision making helping hand to their parents, it’s natural that

they take an active role within the family. This group is closely followed by 79.6

percent of the respondents who actively take up family responsibilities being the

eldest child. It is also found that children from nuclear families are more active in

the decision making process of the family. Absence of older generation with

patriarchal views in the nuclear family is acting conducive for egalitarian relations

among the family members favouring the respondents to play an active role in the

decisions of household. When the income level of the respondents was analysed

in the context, it was strikingly revealed that with greater income, empowerment

in terms of decision making within the family goes on declining. Most

empowered are the respondents who have masters degree in computer

applications (82percent ) and those who earn a monthly income of Rs 25000/- to

Rs 50000/- (86.6 percent of them are active in decision making) followed by

respondents with monthly income between Rs 10000/- to 25000/-. Among the

respondents who earn between Rs 50000/- to Rs 100000/-, 64.2 percent play

active role where as among the respondents who earn more than Rs100000/-, only

50 percent are actively involved in decision making. Respondents who earn high

are naturally above 30 years with more job experience and they belong to an elder

generation still in the clutches of habitualised patriarchal domination.

Thus it can be inferred that Hindu married women IT professionals between 25 to

30 years, hailing from nuclear family and earning a salary between Rs 25000/- to

Rs 50000/-who happen to be the single child of their parents is the most

empowered group as far as decision making within the household is concerned.

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6.1.5 Access and control over domestic resources

Table.6.1.5a

Distribution of respondents based on access and control over resources

On analysing the equitable control and access of respondents over domestic

resources such as car, television etc, it was found that a vast majority of 79.7

percent enjoyed access and control over the same. Only a nominal number of

respondents (7.3percent) disclosed that they have no control and access to their

household resources. Among the respondents, 13 percent also responded that they

have access and control only to certain extent. In depth interviews revealed that

though they had control and access over the resources, priority was always

cherished by male authority of the family i.e., by father or husband or elder

brother which reflects non equitable treatment and distribution of resources in the

family upholding patriarchal authority and dominance. Thus from the table it can

be inferred that though there are variations, majority of the respondents are

empowered in terms of equitable control and access over their domestic resources

and have succeeded in overcoming the patriarchal domination. A detailed analysis

in terms of their socio-economic status is carried out to bring light into the subtle

determinants in this regard.

Response Frequency Percent

Yes 239 79.7

No 22 7.3

Only to some extent 39 13

Total 300 100.0

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Table.6.1.5b

Access and control over resources with respect to socio-economic factors


Active role in decision making within the family

Percent

Age 30 to 35 years 90.0

Religion Hindu 82.5



Income Rs 50,000/- to Rs 10,0000/- 92.8

When access and control exercised by the respondents over the resources was

analysed in relation to socio-economic factors, it was found that among the

respondents who belong to the age group 30 to 35 years, an exceptionally high

majority of 90 percent was having equitable access and control. Income wise

analysis revealed that respondents who were earning an income between Rs

50,000/- to Rs 100000/-were having maximum and control and access over the

resources. This group was closely followed by respondents who earn above Rs 1,

00,000/- per month. This finding brings light to the fact that respondents who earn

high have more control and access over the resources as they play a crucial

economic role in purchasing and maintaining the same. According to this

statement, empowerment in this context seems comparatively a little low among

respondents earning above Rs 1, 00,000/- per month but it needs to be

remembered that they belong to the age group above 35 years and being the

products of elder generation, they are more conforming and habitualised towards

patriarchal authority and domination which denies equity for women.

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When marital status was subjected for study in this regard, it was found that

married women (81.1 percent) are more empowered than unmarried women (78.2

percent) with respect to equitable control and access over the resources. It was

also found that nuclear family was more conducive for empowerment in this

regard as a majority of 81.1 percent of respondents hailing from the same was

exercising more access and control. Religion wise analysis showed that a vast

majority of 82.5 percent Hindus was exercising their control over the resources

and this group was followed by 65.6 percent Christians and 62.5 percent Muslims.

Thus it needs to be inferred that high income is the most crucial factor influencing

and determining equitable control and access over the resources although the role

played by other factors such as age, religion, marital status and type of family

cannot be undervalued.

Testing of Hypothesis 1: Empowerment of women in IT industry is largely

associated with their socio economic conditions.

Table: 6.1.6

Positive Association of Empowerment indicators in Personal sphere with socio- economic factors

Empowerment indicators Socio-economic factors P value Pursuit of hobbies and interests Age 0.049

Exercise of choice regarding dressing pattern

Income 0.027

Nature of marriage (married respondents)

Age 0.38

Type of family 0.042

Education of respondents 0.000

Decision making within the Family


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The positive association between the above mentioned empowerment indicators

and socio-economic factors is statistically proven by administering the chi square

tests and the p values obtained for the same are less than 0.05. Hence the

hypothesis that the empowerment of women IT professionals is largely associated

with their socio economic conditions is accepted with respect to the personal

sphere.

Empowerment with respect to access and control over domestic resources has no

significant association with any of the socio-economic factors. Thus, the above

said hypothesis is accepted with respect to pursuit of hobbies and interests,

exercise of choice regarding dress pattern, nature of marriage and decision

making within the family while it is rejected with respect to access and control

over domestic resources. The relationships found here are relevant to the

population.

6.2 Socio-Cultural sphere

6.2.1 Visits to places of worship

As discussed under Table-5.3.1, the respondents who daily visit their places of

worship are only 4.3 percent. Respondents who make visits on monthly basis are

55 percent, which is the majority group. Respondents who rarely make visit are

14.6 percent while those who make less visit i.e., on special occasions are 7.3

percent and on festivals are one percent. Those who do not make visits at all are

17.6 percent. Thus from the data it can be inferred that respondents are paying

less importance to religious activities, especially when concerned with visit to

places of worship. Ideology and religion are subtle deeper and invisible forces

that invade all sectors of human interaction. Ideologies, religious beliefs reflected

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through societal ideas, morals, values and beliefs play a major role to regulate the

behaviour of men and women and fix ideas about expected behaviour

(Padmavathi, 2006). Hence, lack of adherence to religion and associated

ideologies is congenial for breaking the society’s habitualised and reinforced

norms of female subordination.

Table-6.2.1a

Visit to worship places and relation to socio-economic factors

Socio economic factor Monthly visit to places of worship (most frequent)

Percentage of respondents paying

monthly visits


Religion Christian 79


Type of family Extended 55

Income Rs 25,000/- to Rs 50,0000/- 64.4

The above table reveals that respondents belonging to the age group between 25

to 30 years are the most frequent group visiting their places of worship on

monthly basis (62 percent). No sharp variation could be found when marital status

was analysed in this context. Married respondents were the majority group (54.5

percent) closely followed by unmarried respondents (52 percent) as far as

frequent visit to worship places was concerned. Income wise analysis also points

to the same group as a majority of 64.4 percent of the respondents earning

between Rs 25000/- to Rs 50000/- are frequent in their visits on monthly basis.

An analysis of the type of family of the respondents brought light to the fact that

frequent visit to places of worship was more among respondents hailing from

extended families(55 percent) closely followed by respondents hailing from joint

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families. Presence of older generation in the family indeed facilitates cultural and

religious orientation among the respondents which in turn promotes the frequency

of visits to places of worship. Religion of the respondents, the main criteria was

also subjected to study and it revealed that Christian respondents (79 percent)

were more frequent in their visit to worship places .A compulsory factor present

in the case of visit to churches which is different from temples and mosques

explains this finding. Visit to worship places was nil among Muslim women as

there exist a prohibition among Muslims against female visit to worship places.

High frequency resulting from compulsory visit to worship places cannot be

interpreted as a sign of empowerment as there lays the absence of freedom of

choice. Yet, married women finding time, space and attitude to pay religious

visits in spite of busy schedule should be perceived as empowered in this regard.

6.2.2 Participation in family functions

As discussed under Table 5.3.3, only a feeble majority of 30.7 percent ‘always’

participated in family functions. Respondents who ‘often’ went for the functions

were found to be only 4 percent. These two of groups can be perceived as the

category of respondents who are actually interested and finding time to maintain

family and social ties in family get togethers. Respondents who went only

‘sometimes’ to attend the family functions come up to 30.3 percent while those

who went seldom are 2 percent and those who never went for family functions are

33 percent. This is the majority category of respondents who have less

participation and in turn, weak inter familial and social ties.

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Table-6.2.2a

Participation in family functions and relation to socio-economic factors


Participation in family functions(most frequent)

Percentage of participation




Type of family Joint 50

Income Less than Rs 10000/- 64.4

When participation of respondents was analysed in relation with socio-economic

factors, it was found that a majority of 50 percent of the respondents who actively

participated in family functions hailed from joint families. Upbringing in a joint

family as well as presence of elder members in family acts as a congenial factor

for strengthening and reinforcing bonds with relatives. No sharp variation could

be found when marital status was analysed as 37 percent of married respondents

were the majority group followed by 35 percent of unmarried respondents. A

good majority of them (62 percent) belonged to the age group between 25 to 30

years. Religion wise analysis showed that majority of the respondents who

actively participate in family functions are Hindus. When income of the

respondents was analysed in this context, it was strikingly found that a majority of

55 percent of the respondents earning a monthly income less than Rs 10,000/-

were actively participating in family functions more than any other category. This

group of respondents work in comparatively small IT companies and are less

stressed with over time or busy work schedule which helps them to comfortably

participate in family and social functions.

129

It should be noted that the category of respondents who genuinely participates in

family functions are less in number when compared to the category of

respondents who have less participation in family functions. Busy work schedule

of IT Professionals as well as loosened inter-familial ties among nuclear families

can be pointed out as the reasons for less participation in family functions. Hence

it should be inferred that majority of the respondents are less empowered as far as

maintenance and reinforcement of inter familial bonds are concerned. Supporting

this finding, Ramesh (2008) has also found in his study that odd work timings and

over exertion leads to disturbances in personal and social life as it creates

problems related to maintaining friendships, keeping in touch with relatives,

accomplishing household duties and finding time for sound family relations.

Employees are not even entitled to religious holidays, as the IT companies work

according to the client’s calendar.

6.2.3 Outings with family

As discussed earlier under table-5.3.2, majority of the respondents (36.3 percent)

go for weekly outing with their family members. This group is followed by

respondents who go for outings on monthly basis. Those who go for outing twice

a week are 12.3 percent while those who have daily outing are 3.7 percent. All the

above discussed categories of respondents are having active social life with their

family members. Those who have no regularity with outing are only 2 percent

while those who do not go for outings are negligible i.e., 1.7 percent. A majority

of 47 percent went for different purposes such as going to hotels, shopping

centres, bookstalls, cinema theatres, visiting friends and relatives etc while 28.3

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percent went frequently for shopping purpose. From the above data, it can be

inferred that the respondents are highly immersed in a consumerist culture.

Respondents who choose to visit their relatives were comparatively less (18

percent).

Table-6.2.3a

Weekly outings and relation to socio-economic factors


Weekly outings (most frequent

category)

Percentage of respondents going for

weekly outings Age 25 to 30 years 62

Religion Hindu 36



Income Rs 10000/-to Rs 25,000/- 57.8

Occupational designation

IT Professional- Other designations

47.1

The above table shows that majority of the respondents who go for weekly

outings fall under the age group between 25 to 30 years (62 percent). There is a

sharp variation among married and unmarried respondents as a majority of 46.8

percent of the married respondents go for weekly shopping while only 23.6

percent of the unmarried respondents go for the same purpose. While managing a

household, women will have more domestic articles to purchase and they need to

go for weekly outings in order to cater to their household needs while in the case

of unmarried women, such needs will be catered by their parents. The fact that

married women are having time and money to take care of their domestic and

personal needs should be indeed interpreted as a sign of empowerment. It was

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also seen that weekly outings are more among respondents who hail from joint

families. Presence of more responsible members in the family for sharing the

household duties is conducive for outings as women get more free time to spend

with. Income wise analysis proved that respondents earning between Rs 10,000 to

Rs 25,000 is the majority group going for outings on weekly basis. This sounds

natural as they have adequate money to spend in addition to the fact that they

belong to the age group which is most targeted by the market and media forces to

induce the consumerist culture as well. The study also puts forth the piece of

information that outings are more common among Hindu respondents. It was also

seen that IT professionals holding other designations are more seen with a

shopping spree nature.

Thus it can be inferred that although influenced by the consumerist culture, the

respondents are very often managing their time and money to cater to their

domestic and personal needs through weekly outings which needs to be

interpreted as a sign of empowerment.

6.2.4 Access or ownership of social status symbols

When the social affluence of the respondents with regard to material possessions

and life style was analysed, it was found that the respondents owned, accessed or

used a range of amenities and facilities with their family members which can be

perceived as social status symbols as discussed under Table-5.3.5. A majority of

121 respondents (40.3 percent) owned, used or accessed all such social status

symbols such as luxury cars, air conditioner, mobile phone costing more than

Rs.5000, laptop, microwave oven, branded products and star hotels.

132

As stated by Mukherjee (2008) in her study, the researcher finds that peer

pressure also acts as a factor in the consumption practices of software

professionals and contributes towards setting these ‘knowledge professionals’

apart from the larger society, despite the differences among them. It has created

some kind of complex in the society; for those who are part of the crowd are

okay, and those who are not feel envious -as the professionals of the sector are

pretty affluent. Analysis of their lifestyle and material possessions in relation to

socio-economic factors shall bring light into the factors that act as determinants of

the same.

Table-6.2.4a

Access/ownership of social status symbols and socio-economic factors

Socio economic factor Maximum access/ownership

of social status symbols Percentage of respondents


Religion Hindu 48


Type of family Nuclear 62

Income Rs 50000/-to Rs 1,00,000/- 55

Occupational designation Senior IT Professional.

Technical Level-1

47.1

133

According to the table, majority of the respondents who have access or ownership

of all the above mentioned possessions are those belonging to the age group

between 30 to 35 years (62 percent). Majority of the respondents are married (65

percent) and hail from nuclear families (62 percent). Absence of elder generation

in the family who may criticize a metropolitan posh life style and consumerist

culture also seems agreeable to the situation. Religion wise analysis showed that it

was the Hindu respondents who had maximum access/ownership of amenities

with high social status. When income level of the respondents was analysed, it

was found that maximum access to high life style and maximum access/

ownership of material possessions was enjoyed by the group which earned a

monthly income between Rs 50,000/- to Rs 1,00,000/- (55 percent). Analysis of

occupational designation, pointing towards Senior IT Professional Technical

Level-1 (47.1 percent) also indicates the same finding as they are the group who

earns between the above mentioned salary range. Leading a generous and

extravagant life style of course demands high income which the IT professionals

acquire after gaining a job experience and service above 5 years. The

occupational designation, income level and age group of the respondents who

have access or ownership of all the above mentioned possessions which can be

termed as social status symbols are attained in the later stage of life and the piece

of evidence gained from the above mentioned data corroborates to the finding.

134



Table-6.2.5

Positive Association of Empowerment indicators in socio-cultural sphere

with socio- economic factors.

Empowerment indicators Socio-economic factors P value

Visit to places of worship Type of Family 0.000

Religion 0.000

Outings with family


Marital status 0.000

Income 0.020

Access or ownership of social status symbols



Age 0.000

Income 0.000

Occupational Designation 0.013





with their socio economic conditions is accepted with respect to the socio-cultural

sphere.

135

Empowerment with respect to participation in family functions has no significant

association with any of the socio-economic factors. Thus, the above said

hypothesis is accepted with respect to visit to places of worship, outings with

family and access or ownership of social status symbols while it is rejected with

respect to participation in family functions. The relationships found here are

relevant to the population.

6.3 Economic Sphere

6.3.1 Autonomy in decision making regarding economic transactions,

savings and investments.

Table-6.3.1a

Distribution of respondents based on decision making in economic transactions.


Yes 243 81.3

No 56 18.7

Total 300 100

According to the report put forward by International Finance Corporation (2006),

women’s equal access to and control over economic and financial resources is

critical for the achievement of gender equality and empowerment of women and

for equitable and sustainable economic growth and development. Gender equality

in the distribution of economic and financial resources has positive multiplier

effects for a range of key development goals, including poverty reduction and the

welfare of children.

136

When the role played by respondents in their economic transactions was analysed,

it was found that an exceptionally high majority of 81.3 percent of the

respondents were decision makers with respect to spending and saving their

earnings while only 18.7 percent were not exercising their role as decision

makers in the context. An outstandingly high majority of 91.7 percent of

respondents were contributing their income towards family expenses. Among

them, 12.7 percent were deciding on family expenses individually while 83

percent of the unmarried respondents were taking decisions on family expenses

with parents and 66 percent of the married respondents with their husbands.

Taking decisions on family expenses with parents or husband cannot be termed as

an indicator of disempowerment but it should be perceived as the symbol of

egalitarian relations which they share with their family members while playing

active role in decision making within the household.

Table-6.3.1b

Decision making in economic transactions and relation to socio-economic factors


Decision makers in economic transactions(majority group)


Age Above 35 years 100

Religion Hindu 83

Marital status Unmarried 86


Income Rs 50,000/- to Rs 1,00,000/- 64.4


Senior IT Professional Technical and Managerial-Level 2

100

137

The above table shows that in spending and saving the income, respondents above

35 years are astonishingly empowered as 100 percent of them exercise their role

as decision makers in this regard. Income wise analysis of the respondents

discloses that an exceptionally high majority of 93 percent of the respondents

who earn between Rs 50,000/- to Rs 1,00,000/- are decision makers in spending

and saving the income which they earn. Analysis of the occupational designation

also points to the same group as 100 percent of the senior IT professionals under

Technical and Managerial-Level 2 are exercising their role in economic decision

making within the household.

Strikingly, a high majority of 86 percent of the unmarried respondents act as

decision makers in managing their earnings. It should be understood that with

respect to decision making within the household, women are less dominated by

their fathers than their husbands. Analysis of the type of family has put forward

noticeble information as an exceptionally high majority of 91.1 percent of

respondents hailing from joint families is acting as decision makers in spending

and saving their income. Exercising autonomy in economic decision making

despite the presence of elder members in the family who may hold a patriarchal

outlook should be considered as a strong indicator of empowerment. When

religion of the respondents was examined in this regard, it was found that Hindus

are the majority group (83 percent).

Thus it needs to be inferred that respondents above 35 years, with greater job

experience, holding senior job designations, earning higher income between Rs

50,000/- to Rs 1,00,000/- are the most empowered group as far as economic

138

decision making in the domestic sphere is concerned although married status

stands contrary to such a finding.

6.3.2 Access and control over investments.

According to the report put forward by International finance corporation (2006),

women’s access to all financial services, including savings, insurance, remittance

transfers and credit, is essential to allow them to benefit fully from economic

opportunities. Legal, institutional and socio-cultural barriers often, however, limit

women’s access to these services.

Table- 6.3.2a

Distribution of respondents based on access and control over investments.

Access and control over investments Frequency Percent

To a good extent 208 69.3

To some extent 88 29.3

Not at all 4 1.3

Total 300 100.0

When access and control of the respondents over their investments was analysed,

it was found that a sizeable majority of 69.3 percent were exercising access and

control to a good extent. For 29.3 percent of the respondents, access and control

over the investments was only to some extent while a feeble 1.3 percent of the

respondents exercised no control at all. A sizeable majority of 74.3 percent

responded that they make investments in their name in view of their better future,

mostly in the form of gold, land, vehicle, policies, shares etc. Parents, husband,

139

colleagues, media, concerned professionals etc were the different sources from

which they took advice regarding investment decisions. While unmarried

respondents depended mainly on parents for expert opinion, married respondents

collected information from different sources apart from seeking advice of their

husband. Analysis in relation to socio- economic factors shall prove helpful in

identifying the determinants concerning the same.

Table-6.3.2b

Access and control over investments and relation to socio-economic factors


Access and control over investments.

(Majority group)


Age 30- 35 years 90

Religion Hindu 78



Income Rs 25,000/- to Rs 50,000/- 84

Occupational Designation

Senior IT Professional Technical and Managerial-Level 2

100

The above table shows that access and control over investments is exercised in

majority by the respondents who belong to the age group between 30 to 35 years

(90 percent). The majority group are unmarried respondents (70 percent) hailing

from nuclear families. A majority of 78 percent of the respondents exhibiting this

attribute are Hindus. Income wise analysis shows that among the respondents who

have adequate control and access over the investments, an exceptionally high

majority of 84 percent of them are those earning between Rs 25,000/- to Rs

140

50,000/-. Similar to what have been seen in the analysis of occupational

designation with respect to decision making in spending and investment, it is

astonishing to note that 100 percent of the senior IT professionals in Technical

and Managerial-Level 2 are exercising access and control over their investments.

Thus from the study, it can be inferred that with higher age, greater income and

senior occupational designations, women IT professionals have greater

empowerment as far as exercising access and control over their investments is

concerned. In the face of such a finding , married status seems to be an

impediment in this regard.



Table: 6.3.3

Positive association of empowerment indicator in economic sphere


Empowerment indicator Socio-economic factors P value

Autonomy in decision making regarding economic transactions, savings and investments.


Income 0.000

The positive association between the above mentioned empowerment indicator




141

with their socio economic conditions is accepted with respect to the economic

sphere.

Empowerment with respect to access and control over investments has no

significant association with any of the socio-economic factors. Thus, the above

said hypothesis is accepted with respect to autonomy in decision making

regarding economic transactions, savings and investments while it is rejected with

respect to access and control over investments. The relationships found here are

relevant to the population.

6.4 Familial/Interpersonal sphere

6.4.1 Freedom from authority and domination of same generational males.

Table-6.4.1a

Distribution of the respondents based experience of male domination in family

The respondents were asked if they experienced authority and domination of same

generational males in family such as husband over wife, brother over sister etc.

The analysis revealed that a sizeable majority of 68 percent do not experience

such domination from their male family members belonging to the same

generation. Authority and domination exercised by father or grandfather in the

family is a result of the power exercised by the elder head of the family as per the


Yes 95 31.7

No 204 68.0

Total 300 100.0

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patrifocal norms. Over the years in their upbringing in a patriarchal family

structure, women will be habitualised towards conforming to such an authority

structure in the family. This authority is also extended to and exercised by other

males in the family who hold positions such as husband, brother etc which

reflects male dominance over women. Hence if a substantial majority of

respondents are able to withstand and overcome the authority and domination of

same generational males in their family, it should indeed be recognized as a

positive sign of empowerment.

Table-6.4.1b

Freedom from male dominance and relation to socio-economic factors


Freedom from male dominance (majority group)






Income Rs 10,000/- to Rs 25000/- 64.4

The above table discloses that respondents belonging to the age group between 20

to 25 years are the majority group enjoying freedom from same generational male

dominance within the family. A sizeable majority of 71.4 percent of them hails

from nuclear families and is also unmarried (72 percent). Here it should be

inferred that respondents hailing from nuclear families are brought up in

egalitarian status with their male siblings. Absence of old generational male

members in nuclear family is also favourable for such an attitude in the family.

Income wise analysis also points to the same group as respondents earning a

143

monthly income between Rs 10,000/- to Rs 25000/- are the majority group (68

percent) enjoying freedom from such dominance. Religion wise analysis show

that Christian respondents are the majority group (70 percent) enjoying freedom

in this regard though closely followed by 69 percent of Hindu respondents.

Thus it needs to be inferred that unmarried status and nuclear families are the

most congenial factors for promoting freedom against dominance from same

generational males in the family. The finding also gives a subtle message about

the domination suffered by married respondents from their husbands.

6.4.2 Absence of interference from family regarding job decisions.

Table- 6.4.2a Distribution of respondents based on interference in job decisions

According to the table, a significant majority of 74 percent of respondents do not

have any interference or control from their family members in decisions regarding

their job such as changing company, salary negotiation, mode of mobility etc.

Only an apparent 26.3 percent of respondents face problems in this regard. As

explained under Table-6.1.4a, it should be noted that despite the absence of

control and interference from family members, majority of the respondents (76.7

percent) also play an active role in decision making within the family.


Yes 79 26

No 221 74

Total 300 100.0

144

Table-6.4.2b

Absence of family interference in job decisions and socio-economic factors


Freedom from family interference in job decisions (majority group)






Income Rs 25,000/- to Rs 50,000/- 77

The above table conveys that a significant majority of 75percent of respondents

belonging to the age group between 25 to 30 years are enjoying freedom from

family interference regarding their job decisions. When the marital status was

analysed, it was found that majority of 76 percent, are married respondents. With

marriage women are considered as grown up individuals capable of taking

decisions concerning them and hence they have less interference from their family

members. Income wise analysis of the majority group also corroborates with

findings related to age group and marital status as respondents earning a monthly

income between Rs 25,000/- to Rs 50,000/- are the most empowered group with

respect to the context. Among them a sizeable majority of 74 percent are

Christians. When type of family of the majority group was analysed, it was

established that a majority of 76 percent of the respondents who are free from

family interference in job decisions hail from nuclear families.

145

Thus it can be inferred that married women between the age group 25 to 30

years, hailing from nuclear families are the group who are free from family

interference regarding their job decisions.

6.4.3 Balancing work with family obligations

Table-6.4.3a

Distribution of respondents based on family-work balance


Yes 120 82.1

No 11 17.9

Total 146 100 The respondents were asked if they were able to balance work with family

obligations. A majority of 82.1 percent positively responded while 17.9 percent

disclosed that they were not able to keep the balance between their profession and

family obligations. A high majority of 84.7 percent also conveyed that they were

finding time to share family responsibilities which involves home management,

treatment of ageing parents, education of children etc. In their study, Fuller and

Narasimhan (2008) states that because it is seen as a duty, women-especially

married women consistently assume more family responsibility than men. Still, if

majority of the respondents are able to maintain family-work balance, it should be

necessarily interpreted as a sign of their empowerment.

Analysis in relation to socio- economic factors shall prove helpful in identifying

the determinants concerning the same.

146

Table-6.4.3b

Family-work balance and relation to socio-economic factors


Freedom from family interference in job

decisions (majority group)





Income Rs 25,000/- to Rs 50,000/- 82

Though married women are laid up with different household tasks, they are

invariably supported and assisted by their husbands, parents and in-laws who

make it easy to balance between work and family obligations. In the course of the

study, it was also found that parents and in-laws of the respondents extend active

support in looking after their children. Age wise and income wise analysis

supports the finding as the majority group who balance between profession and

family are respondents belonging to the age group between 25 to 30 years (80

percent), earning between Rs 25,000/- to Rs 50,000/-(82 percent). Joint family is

found to facilitate the work and family life balance of majority of the respondents

(65 percent) though very closely followed by 64 percent of nuclear families.

Religion wise analysis revealed that Christian respondents are maintaining the

balance more than Hindu and Muslim respondents. Christianity moving more

towards modernity encourages the respondents to utilize all modern amenities and

facilities that may help to ensure a better balance between family and profession.

147

Thus it can be inferred that Christian married women are more empowered as far

as balance between work and family obligations are concerned.



Table-6.4.4

Positive association of empowerment indicators in familial/inter personal

sphere with socio- economic factors.

Empowerment indicator Socio-economic factors P value

Balancing work with family obligations



Age 0.000

Income 0.000

Designation 0.019

The positive association between the above mentioned empowerment indicator




with their socio economic conditions is accepted with respect to the familial/Inter

personal sphere.

Empowerment with respect to freedom from authority and domination of same

generational males and absence of interference from family regarding job

decisions has no significant association with any of the socio-economic factors.

Thus, the above said hypothesis is accepted with respect to balancing work with

148

family obligations while it is rejected with respect to freedom from authority and

domination of same generational males and absence of interference from family

regarding job decisions. The relationships found here are relevant to the

population.

6.5 Professional sphere

Professional competency:

6.5.1 Technical Knowledge.

As discussed under table-5.1.5 with regard to the educational qualification of the

respondents, a comparatively high majority of them (38 percent) are B Tech

holders. Among them, 5 percent of the respondents have the degree of M Tech.

BCA holders are 9.6 percent while MCA holders are 18.3 percent. Thus it should

be interpreted that an accumulated 70.9 percent of them are professionally

empowered in terms of their technical knowledge. Rest of the respondents are

graduates and postgraduates in other disciplines employed as IT Professionals

with necessary technical knowledge in computer application but are

comparatively less empowered with respect to technical knowledge.

6.5.2 Adequate payment

With regard to career, the respondents were asked if they felt that they were

adequately paid by the company. A not so commendable majority of 52 percent

positively responded, while 44.7 percent didn’t have the feel that they were

adequately paid. Respondents who came up to 3.3 percent were reluctant to

149

express their opinion. Here, it becomes apparent that 52 percent of the

respondents are professionally empowered as far as their payment is concerned.

Table-6.5.2a

Adequate payment and relation to socio-economic factors

Socio economic factor Self perception of payment adequacy (majority group)



Education B.Tech 49

Income Rs 25000/- to Rs 50,000/- per month

71

Occupational designation Senior IT Professional Managerial- L1

73

When the self perception of being adequately paid was cross tabulated with socio-

economic factors, it was found that respondents belonging to the age group

between 25 to 30 years (70 percent) is the majority group. B.Tech degree was the

educational qualification of majority of the respondents (49 percent) in this

context. When income of the respondents who had the self perception of being

adequately paid was analysed, it was found that a majority of 71 percent earned

between Rs 25000/- to Rs 50,000/- per month. A high majority of respondents (73

percent) were holding the designation of Senior IT Professional Managerial

Level1.

Thus from the finding, it can be interpreted that sound technical knowledge along

with a job experience of 2 to 5 years is the necessary criteria in the IT industry for

being empowered in terms of adequate payment.

150

6.5.3 Autonomy in work

When they were enquired about the nature of their work pattern, a majority of 53

percent responded that they were having the required autonomy in their work

while 37.7 percent disclosed that they were having autonomy in work only to

some extent. Another 3.3 percent also responded that they were not having

autonomy at all as far as work is concerned. Hence it needs to be interpreted that

53 percent of the respondents are professionally empowered in relation to the

required autonomy in work.

Table-6.5.3a

Autonomy in work and relation to socio-economic factors

Socio economic factor Autonomy in work (majority group)



Education B.Tech 49

Income Rs 25000/- to Rs 50,000/- per month

64


Senior IT Professional Managerial L1

73

Analysis of autonomy in work experienced by the majority respondents seem very

similar to the findings brought to light, as a result of the analysis of their self

perception regarding payment adequacy when related with socio economic factors

such as their age, income, educational qualification and occupational designation.

Majority of the respondents who enjoy adequate autonomy in their work, belong

151

to the age group between 25 to 30 years (70 percent) and are qualified with

B.Tech degree (49 percent).

As a result of their job experience ranging from 2 to 5 years, they earn a good

income between Rs 25000/- to Rs 50,000/- per month (64 percent). Majority of

the respondents who have autonomy in their work are senior IT professionals at

Managerial Level-1(73 percent).

Here it needs to be interpreted that when necessary technical knowledge provided

by the professional degree in engineering is combined with accountable job

experience, the respondents are equipped to be empowered professionally with

respect to autonomy in work.

6.5.4 Working under pressure and meeting targets on time

Table-6.5.4a

Distribution of respondents based on work pressure and target achievement


Always 85 28

Often 108 36

Sometimes 93 31

Seldom 7 1.9

Never 7 2.7

Total 300 100.0

The respondents were asked if they were able to work under pressure and meet

their targets on time. While a majority of 36 percent responded that were often

152

able to work under pressure, respondents who came up to 28 percent were always

able to meet their targets working under pressure. Thus an accumulated 64

percent of the respondents should be considered as empowered in this respect.

Rest of the respondents should be considered as comparatively less professionally

empowered as they are able to work under pressure and meet their targets on time

only sometimes, seldom or even never.

Apart from this, as stated by Ramesh (2008) in his study, the researcher also

found that the team leaders undertake regular ‘target meetings’ in which the team

members are repeatedly reminded about the importance of meeting targets.

Targets are set on individual as well as team basis and are linked to career

prospects and perks such as promotions, increments, gifts, group parties, picnics

and so on. These strategies seem to generate peer pressure as well as individual

incentives to attain higher levels of productivity.

Table-6.5.4b

Work pressure and relation to socio-economic factors

Socio economic factor Working under pressure and meeting targets

(majority group)



Education B.Tech 65

Income Rs 50,000/- to Rs 1,00,000/- per month

64

Occupational designation Senior IT Professional Managerial L1

73

153

The above table shows that majority of the respondents who work under pressure

and meet their targets on time are respondents belonging to the age group between

30 to 35 years (82 percent). It should be understood that professional degree in

engineering is highly favourable for technical competence as a majority of 65

percent of the respondents who successfully meet their targets are B.Tech holders.

Analysis of income brings forth an interesting finding as the percentage of

respondents successful in meeting their targets increases in an ascending order

along with their income levels. The most successful are those earning between Rs

50,000/- to Rs 1, 00,000/- per month (86 percent) and the least successful are

those earning between Rs 10,000/- to Rs 25,000/- per month. It should be noted

that respondents belonging to the junior rung of the occupational hierarchy are the

ones subjected to project deadlines, odd hour work and overtimes while those

holding senior positions are most often entrusted with leading the team and

monitoring their team work. Hence they are at a more comfortable position to

meet their targets. Analysis of occupational designation also corroborates to this

finding as senior IT professionals at Managerial Level are the majority group

achieving their targets while junior IT professionals at technical and managerial

levels are the minority percentage managing to achieve the same.

Hence it should be interpreted that the ease in working under pressure and

achieving the targets increases with increasing levels of occupational hierarchy

and hence senior IT professionals at managerial level are the most professionally

empowered group with respect to working under pressure and achieving the

targets.

154

6.5.5 Working flexibly with respect to time and multi tasking

Table-6.5.5a Distribution of respondents based on flexibility in work

Respondents who are able to work flexibly always and often should be considered

as professionally competent to work flexibly, with respect to time and multi

tasking. In such a case, an accumulated 57.3 percent should be perceived as

professionally competent. Respondents who have disclosed that working flexibly

is possible only sometimes (36.7 percent) should be perceived as partially

competent. Among the respondents, 6 percent should be considered as not

professionally competent as they work flexibly, seldom or never.

When the possibility of working flexibly with respect to space (at home) was

enquired, many of the married respondents didn’t find it as a good idea. As stated

by Anderson and Shrum (2006), household burden of married women is much

more extensive and since female professional earnings are seen as an asset rather

than a necessity, many women feel conflicted about engaging in professional

labour while physically located in their residence. Analysis of the ability of the

Flexibility experienced Frequency Percent

Always 79 26.3

Often 93 31.0

Sometimes 110 36.7

Seldom 6 2.0

Never 12 4.0

Total 300 100.0

155

respondents to work flexibly in relation to relevant socio-economic factors shall

explain more about their professional competency.

Table-6.5.5b

Flexibility in work and relation to socio-economic factors

Socio economic factor Flexibility in work (majority group)



Education B.Tech 60.7

Income Rs 25,000/- to Rs 50,000/- per month

69

Occupational designation Senior IT Professional Managerial Level 1

73

When work flexibility of respondents with respect to time and multitasking was

analysed, it was found that 68 percent of the respondents belonging to the age

group between 25 to 30 years with B.Tech degree is the majority group being able

to work flexibly. Income wise analysis shows that respondents earning between

Rs 25,000/- to Rs 50,000/- per month is the group which is able to maintain

flexibility on the basis of time and multi tasking (69 percent). When the

respondents was analysed in the context, with respect to their occupational

designation, it was found that among senior IT professionals at managerial level,

a high majority of 73 percent was working flexibly. It should be noted that

respondents belonging to the junior rung of the occupational hierarchy are the

ones subjected to project deadlines, odd hour work and overtimes while those

holding senior positions are most often entrusted with leading the team, assigning

them with project responsibilities and monitoring their team work. Hence they

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have flexible work timings and are at a comfortable position to take up

multitasking.

Hence it can be inferred that senior IT professionals at managerial level are the

most empowered group with respect to flexible work timings and multi tasking.

6.5.6 Stress Induced by Work Practices

Table-6.5.6a

Distribution of respondents based on job stress experienced

Response Frequency Percent Always 42 14

Sometimes 165 55.3 Never 90 30.3 Total 300 100.0

Regarding the stress induced by work practices, a majority of 55.3 percent felt

that sometimes, the work practices of the industry are stressful while 14 percent

of them found the work practices as always stressful. To quote the words of a

respondent: ‘The Industry has taught me to be professional, to be productive to

the maximum, but I don’t know how long I can work like this’. Only 30.3 percent

of the respondents remarked that they do not experience work stress, and hence

only they can be termed as professionally empowered as far as work stress is

concerned. Still, what is found by Ramesh ( 2008: 248) from his study, makes

relevance in this context-‘Though aware of the hidden stress and strain with this

system, many of the respondents expressed satisfaction with it because it assured

some increase in salaries, based on their performance’

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Table-6.5.6b

Job stress and relation to socio-economic factors

Socio economic

factor

Absence of stress induced by

work practices (majority group)

Percentage of

respondents


Marital Status Married 30

Education B.Tech 29

Income Above Rs 1,00,000/- per month 38

Occupational

designation

Senior IT Professional Technical

Level-1

45

The above table shows that respondents belonging to the age group between 30 to

35 years are the group which experience maximum absence of stress though

comparatively with a feeble majority (29.8 percent). Professional degree in

engineering is highly favourable for technical competence which in turn results in

absence of stress induced by work practices and hence majority of them are

B.Tech degree holders (29 percent). Income wise analysis shows that the category

of respondents who earn maximum, above Rs 100000/- per month is the group

which experience maximum absence of stress induced by work practices (38

percent). Analysis of occupational designation also points to the same group as

majority of 45 percent of respondents who do not experience stress induced by

work practices are senior IT professionals at Technical Levels. As discussed

under Table-6.5.4b, respondents belonging to the junior rung of the occupational

hierarchy are the ones subjected to project deadlines, odd hour work and

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overtimes while those holding senior positions are most often entrusted with

leading the team and monitoring their team work. Hence stress induced by work

practices on senior professionals will be less.

Here it needs to be inferred that stress induced by work practices is invariably

associated with technical competence and years of job experience and hence

respondents holding senior positions in job hierarchy are the most professionally

empowered group as far as work stress is concerned.

6.5.7 Satisfactory health status related to nature of work in IT industry

Table.6.5.7a

Distribution of respondents based on health problems induced by work in IT

The above table shows that only 28.6 percent of the respondents are facing health

problems due to the nature of work in IT. Eye problems, ENT problems, gastro

intestinal problems, musculo skeletal problems and life style diseases are the main

health issues faced by them, which are discussed in detail under Table-5.4.4.

Here, it should be interpreted that this group of respondents are not adequately

empowered from the health aspect as these are health problems which arise due to

pathogenic stress induced by work in IT. A similar finding was reported by


Yes 86 28.6

No 191 63.7

Not revealing 23 7.7

Total 300 100.0

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Ramesh as the respondents of his study exhibited ‘mental and physical ill health

such as nervousness, chronic fatigue, insomnia, nausea, anxiety, restlessness,

irritability and even depression. Some of them pointed out that working in shifts

even causes psycho neurotic disturbances such as depression. Respondents also

reported frequent occurrence of gastro intestinal problems, with digestive

problems such as constipation, peptic ulcer, indigestion, diarrhoea, excessive gas

formation, abdominal pain and heart burn. They also develop poor eating habits

as well as smoking, excessive drinking of coffee and so on, to cope with

psychological and physical stress (2008:225).

Health hazards brought about by the industry on the respondents are stress

induced, technology induced, induced by the work environment or a combination

of all these factors. Compulsion to work in an atmosphere not congenial for good

health and absence of freedom of choice to avoid job overstress needs to be

interpreted as signs of poor empowerment. A majority of 63.7 percent of the

respondents conveyed that they do not have health problems in this regard which

is a positive sign from the health aspect of empowerment. Among the

respondents, 7.7 percent was not ready to reveal their health condition and this is

surely due to the job insecurity they face from the industry.

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Table -6.5.7b

Health issues and relation to socio economic factors

Socio economic factor Maximum Presence of health problem

Minimum health problem

Age 20-25 years(36 percent)

30-35years

(7 percent)

Education of respondents MCA(43.1percent)

M.A/M.Com.

(nil)

Occupational Designation Junior IT professional Managerial/ Technical

Level-1(38 percent)

IT professional-Sales.(nil)

Income Rs 10,000/-to Rs 25000/-(34.5 percent)

Rs 50,000/- to Rs 100000/-

(7 percent)

From the above table, it becomes evident that the health problems faced by the

respondents are indeed induced by the work practices of IT industry. Socio

economic factors of the respondents who faced health problems were subjected to

study and it was found that maximum health threat was faced by respondents

belonging to age group between 20-25 years (36 percent). A majority of 43.1

percent of respondents educationally qualified with MCA were facing health

problems when compared with other group of respondents. Obviously, a master’s

degree in computer applications will make the respondents technically skilled and

immersed in work with computers. When the occupational designation of the

respondents was analysed, it was found that Junior IT professional Managerial/

Technical Level-1(38 percent) was the majority group which faced health

problems due to the nature of their work. Being occupationally placed in the

lower rung, they are the group who face maximum stress due to project deadlines,

161

odd hour work and job overstress. Income wise analysis also points to the same

group as respondents earning monthly income between Rs 10000/- to Rs 25000/-

are the majority group (34.5 percent) suffering from health problems.

In this context it also becomes relevant to identify the group which has least

health issues. Analysis in relation to socio-economic factors revealed that

respondents belonging to age group between 30 to 35 years are facing least threat

from health issues. An income wise analysis also pointed to the same group as

only a nominal 7 percent of the respondents earning a monthly income between

Rs 50,000 to 1,00000/- are having health problems. Obviously, being senior IT

professionals, they have flexible job timings, required autonomy in work and

comparatively less job pressure with respect to target achieving and multi tasking

as they will be vested with the job of assigning work to juniors, appraising their

progress and leading the team. It was also found that IT professionals dealing

with sales and those with educational qualification of MA/M.com are not having

any health problems and this attributes to their comparatively less involvement in

technical jobs.

Thus it can be inferred that Junior IT professional Managerial/ Technical Level-1

earning monthly income between Rs 10000/- to Rs 25000/- are most susceptible

to health problems while professionals who are less technically involved have

least threat to their health.

6.5.8 Tackling sexual harassment at work place

‘Sexual harassment is harassment or unwelcome attention of a sexual nature. It

includes a range of behavior from mild transgressions and annoyances to serious

162

abuses, which can even involve forced sexual activity’ (Boland 2002). Sexual

harassment is considered as a form of illegal discrimination, and is a form of

sexual and psychological abuse. Effects of sexual harassment can vary depending

on the individual, and the severity and duration of the harassment. ‘Often sexual

harassment incidents fall into the category of the “merely annoying”. However,

many situations can, and do, have life altering effects particularly when they

involve severe/chronic abuses, and/or retaliation against a victim who does not

submit to the harassment, or who complains about it openly’(Koss, 1987).

Table-6.5.8.a

Distribution of respondents based on experience of sexual harassment

From the above table it can be understood that a very high majority of 91 percent

of the respondents have not experienced sexual harassment from the professional

arena. But it needs to be noted that among the 300 respondents, 17 of them have

faced sexual harassment while 10 of them are not ready to reveal about the same.

Though the group is a minority, the issue needs to be addressed with utmost

importance and diligence. The respondents who underwent sexual harassment at

the work place were asked about the ways in which they tackled it. Among the 17

respondents, 4 of them warned personally, 15 of them informed the family in spite


Yes 17 5.7

No 273 91.0

Not Revealing 10 4.3

Total 300 100.0

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of warning personally while 2 of them legally complained and 1 among them

reported to the higher concerned authorities. It needs to be appreciated that action

was taken by the respondents in one way or the other and that, none of the

respondents have silently suffered the torture. Indeed, this needs to be interpreted

as a strong indicator of their empowerment.

In 1997, the Supreme Court of India recognized sexual harassment at the

workplace as a violation of human rights and outlines a set of guidelines

(Guidelines on Sexual Harassment at the Workplace) for the prevention and

redress of complaints by women of sexual harassment at workplace. Despite

these guidelines, studies demonstrate that sexual harassment in the workplace is

serious and persistent. For example, the study entitled “Sexual harassment in the

Workplace” (2006) sponsored by the Population Council, Government of India

remarks that sexual harassment continues to trouble many working women.

Table-6.5.8b

Experience of sexual harassment and its relation to socio-economic factors

Socio economic factor Majority group with the experience of sexual

harassment



Marital Status Unmarried 5.26

Income Rs 25,000/- to Rs 50,000/- 11.1

Occupational designation Junior IT Professional Managerial/Technical

Level-2

7.9

164

The above table reveals that sexual harassment is experienced maximum by the

respondents falling under the age group between 20 to 25 years (7.3 percent). A

comparative analysis of the marital status shows that unmarried respondents are

more prone to sexual harassment as they come up to 5.26 percent while 4.89

percent of the married respondents experience the same. Obviously, eve teasers

are more comfortable to taunt unmarried women rather than married ones who

have a formal partner in their life to take care of their wellbeing. Analysis of

income and occupational designation also supports the above finding and points

to the same respondent group. Respondents earning a monthly income between

Rs 25,000/- to Rs 50,000/- is the majority group (11.1 percent) experiencing

sexual harassment and they are followed by those earning between Rs 10,000/- to

Rs 25,000/- per month (4.7 percent). Occupational designation of the majority

group is Junior IT professional Technical/ Managerial Level-2. In this context, it

also needs to be noted that a high majority of respondents who are not willing to

reveal their experience are unmarried ones earning between Rs 10,000/- to Rs

25,000/- per month and occupationally designated as Junior IT professional

Technical/ Managerial Level-1. Suspicion arises whether they have experienced

sexual harassment and that whether their lesser job experience and meager

standing in the industry forces them to maintain silence regarding the

same.Another finding that holds attention is that a very high majority of 75

percent of the respondents are ignorant about the formal provisions that exist in

their company to tackle such difficulties. Those who were aware, belonged to the

well established and celebrated companies which themselves make their

employees informed about the same.

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Table-6.5.9

Positive association of empowerment indicators in professional sphere


Empowerment indicators Socio-economic factors P value

Adequate payment Education of respondents 0.029

Autonomy in Work


Income 0.000

Working flexibly with respect to time and multi

tasking


Stress Induced by Work Practices


Income 0.002

Satisfactory health status related to nature of work in

IT industry

Education of respondents

Income

0.000

0.000

Sexual harassment at work place

Age 0.000

Income 0.000


Marital Status 0.000





with their socio economic conditions is accepted with respect to the professional

sphere.

166

Empowerment with respect to working under pressure and meeting targets on

time has no significant association with any of the socio-economic factors. Thus,

the above said hypothesis is accepted with respect to adequate payment,

autonomy in work, working flexibly with respect to time and multi tasking, stress

induced by work practices, satisfactory health status related to nature of work in

IT industry and sexual harassment at work place while it is rejected with respect

to working under pressure and meeting targets on time. The relationships found

here are relevant to the population.

Thus the present chapter provides an overview about the empowerment

dimensions of Kerala women IT professionals employed at Technopark as well as

the positive association of empowerment indicators in different spheres with

socio- economic factors.

dimensions of empowerment; relationship with...

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