The influence of gender norms on unpaid care work within households in Gweri Sub-County, Soroti District

Abstract

This study probed the influence of gender norms on unpaid care work within households in the Teso Sub-Region, the focus was on Gweri Sub-County in Soroti District. The primary variables in examination were 'Gender norms' as the independent variable and 'Unpaid care work' as the dependent variable, as observed in Gweri Sub-County. The brunt of unpaid care duties which have predominantly fallen on women and girls compared to the men creates a disparity which curtails women's active engagement in remunerated work. This has engendered a perpetual cycle of economic inequalities and deep-seated poverty. This has been driven by the different gender norms within specific contexts which this study sought to unveil. The primary objectives of the study were to explore the experiences and perceptions of individuals regarding unpaid care work in households in relation to gender roles and norms; to examine the implications of unpaid care work on women's involvement in paid employment and other economic ventures; and to identify challenges and opportunities pertinent to addressing the combined issues of unpaid care work and gender norms. In terms of methodology, a cross-sectional study design was employed. Data was collected from adults engaged in unpaid care roles in Gweri Sub-County, using both qualitative & quantitative methods. For the quantitative aspect, 51 (16 male & 35 female) adult respondents were selected using systematic and purposive sampling techniques. For the qualitative dimension, purposive selection was employed to select 26 adults (12 male & 14 female) who participated in three Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). The data collection tools comprised of a structured questionnaire with both close-ended & open-ended questions, supplemented by an interview guide. The quantitative data was processed using STATA and Ms Excel, while the qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. The research findings indicated that women consistently dedicated more time to unpaid care work than men; this is driven by the deeply entrenched cultural norms and societal structures. This considerable involvement curtailed their opportunities to engage in paid work and other incomegenerating activities and has brought about the deprivation of women’s economic emancipation. Notably, more than a third of respondents reported that their significant engagement in unpaid care work restricted their opportunities in income-generating endeavours and also impacted their leisure time. Various factors were identified that influenced this dynamic: marriage, poverty, the prevailing belief that care work is predominantly a woman's domain, and a lower educational attainment among women. The study concluded that such extensive involvement in unpaid care work not only diminishes women’s economic prospects but also affects their holistic well-being and societal standing. Based on these findings, the study calls for intensified efforts to advance gender equality. Advancing a holistic approach that brings on board all the key actors (government entities, CSOs, communities, religious leaders and the private sector) can gradually dismantle the deeply entrenched gender stereotypes. Suggested approaches encompass cultural shifts, alterations in prevailing mindsets, educational initiatives aimed at transforming perceptions, measures to rectify economic disparities, and the encouragement of shared domestic responsibilities. These interventions are designed to lay the groundwork for more equitable socio-economic opportunities for all women and men and can pave way for a more equitable society.