Why Many Educated Women in Kerala Choose to Stay as Housewives
The state of Kerala has long been celebrated for its high literacy rates and a forward-thinking approach towards women's education and empowerment. Despite these positive attributes, it is not uncommon to find educated women choosing to remain as housewives rather than pursuing employment. This phenomenon can be attributed to a variety of socio-economic and cultural factors that highlight the complexities of contemporary life in Kerala.
Gender Norms and Preferences for Work
A significant factor influencing the decision of educated women to remain as housewives in Kerala is the deeply rooted gender norms that often discourage women from stepping out to work. In many traditional Kerala families, the assumption is that a woman's place is primarily at home, taking care of domestic duties and children. These norms shape the preference of the nature and place of work, leading many educated women to feel constrained by societal expectations.
The cultural environment of Kerala, where community and family values hold deep significance, further reinforces this mindset. Many women feel that their role as a homemaker is more aligned with traditional familial duties, which they are more willing to prioritize over a demanding workplace environment. This cultural backdrop makes it easier for educated women to accept a life as a housewife and fulfill their societal roles.
The Migration of Men to the Middle-East
The migration of men to the Middle-East for work is another crucial factor that contributes to the high number of educated women who choose to stay as housewives in Kerala. A significant number of educated men from Kerala work in the Middle-East, driven by better economic opportunities and higher wages compared to what they might find in India. This leaves a significant portion of the working-age population in Kerala in the form of their educated female counterparts, often with higher qualifications, choosing to remain at home.
The prolonged absence of these men has created a socio-economic situation where women are free from the burden of earning their family's livelihoods. This often leads to the perception that working outside the home is unnecessary and that their responsibilities are confined to the household. The supportive networks and extended family systems in Kerala also play a critical role in this scenario, creating an environment where women feel secure in their roles as homemakers.
Insufficient Jobs for Educated Persons in Kerala
A third key factor is the scarcity of job opportunities for educated persons within Kerala itself. Despite its reputation for innovation and a focus on human resource development, Kerala faces significant challenges in providing sufficient employment opportunities for its educated populace.
The job market in Kerala is often characterized by a mismatch between the skill sets of educated individuals and the available job openings. Many educated women find themselves overqualified for the few positions that are available, leading them to either seek employment outside the state or to remain unemployed. This situation further reinforces their decision to opt for the stability and security of a life as a housewife.
Additionally, the nature of available jobs tends to be skewed towards sectors that are less appealing to educated women, such as low-paying service jobs or informal employment in the agricultural sector. The lack of recognition and value for jobs in these sectors can make them less attractive options for women with higher qualifications looking for meaningful work.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice of many educated women in Kerala to remain as housewives is a multifaceted issue influenced by deep-seated gender norms, cultural expectations, the migration of male family members, and the scarcity of suitable job opportunities. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that includes changing cultural attitudes, improving the job market, and providing support systems for women in their decision-making process.