Issue Details

GENDER IMBALANCE IN INDIA: A PSYCHOSOCIAL PERSPECTIVE

ABSTRACT

Gender imbalance in India is a complex issue that has a significant psychosocial impact on individuals and society as a whole. Psychosocial factors such as gender stereotypes, cultural beliefs, and social norms contribute to the perpetuation of gender inequality, leading to a skewed gender ratio in favor of males. One major factor contributing to gender imbalance in India is the cultural preference for male children. This preference is deeply ingrained in traditional beliefs and has been perpetuated for generations. Sons are seen as the carriers of the family name and lineage, while daughters are expected to marry and leave their parents’ home. This cultural bias is further perpetuated by religious and social norms that promote patriarchy and male dominance. Gender stereotypes also play a significant role in perpetuating gender inequality in India. Traditional gender roles dictate that men are the breadwinners and decision-makers in the family, while women are expected to be homemakers and caregivers. These stereotypes limit women’s opportunities for education and employment, perpetuating their economic dependence on men and reinforcing gender inequality. The psychosocial impact of gender imbalance in India is profound. Women are subjected to discrimination, harassment, and violence, and are often denied basic human rights such as education and healthcare. The skewed gender ratio has also led to an increase in the trafficking of women and girls, as well as other forms of exploitation. Gender imbalance in India is a complex issue that has deep-rooted psychosocial causes. To address this issue, it is important to challenge cultural biases and stereotypes that perpetuate gender inequality and to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment. This can be achieved through education, awareness-raising, and the promotion of gender-sensitive policies and programs. The current work tries and review gender imbalance from a psychosocial perspective and what are the challenges that are to be worked around to counter this social vice.

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