EVALUATING SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONSTRAINTS ON FEMALE EMPOWERMENT AND DECISION-MAKING

Abstract

This research, conducted in KPK, assessed the impact of empowerment dynamics and socio-economic constraints on female decision-making. Using descriptive research with random sampling, 200 female respondents were selected from Peshawar and Mardan districts. The research instrument showed excellent consistency (Cronbach Alpha: 0.78 to 0.82). Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, with ANOVA and LSD tests conducted at a 0.01 alpha level. Results indicated that a majority of respondents were middle-aged (55%), uneducated (62%), and lived in joint family systems (83%). The study concluded that female empowerment dynamics remained consistent, while socio-economic constraints showed non-significant variation. Recommendations include establishing vocational training institutes to improve socio-economic conditions and promoting female participation in decision-making to enhance political representation.