ATTITUDE OF HIGHER SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS (BOYS) TOWARDS WOMEN’S EMPLOYMENT AT HOWRAH DISTRICT

Abstract

Introduction: Attitudes of male students towards women’s employment play a crucial role in shaping societal perspectives on gender roles. Understanding these attitudes is essential for promoting gender equality and encouraging young men to support women’s workforce participation. Howrah district, with its mix of urban and semi-urban populations, provides a representative setting to explore these perceptions among higher secondary school boys.

Aims and Objectives: To assess the attitudes of higher secondary male students in Howrah district towards women’s employment and identify factors influencing their perceptions.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 60 male students from ten randomly selected higher secondary schools in Howrah district, India. A structured Likert-scale questionnaire was used to measure attitudes across domains including social acceptability, career suitability, and perceived family roles. Data were analysed to determine the prevalence of positive, neutral, and traditional attitudes and to examine correlations with exposure to working women in families or communities.

Results: Among 60 higher secondary boys, most supported women’s right to work and pursue careers (mean scores 3.75–4.25). They favored shared household duties (mean 4.05) and workplace equality (mean 4.08–4.20) but noted cultural barriers (mean 3.15). Some traditional views persisted regarding women prioritizing home (mean 3.05).Future-oriented responses highlighted strong support for gender education and advocacy.

Conclusion: Higher secondary male students in Howrah district exhibit a mix of traditional and progressive attitudes toward women’s employment. Educational initiatives and awareness programs are recommended to further promote gender equality and foster supportive attitudes among young men.