Factors Affecting Decision-Making Capacity of Women: A Survey

Nilima Kamlu

Abstract

This research paper examines the factors influencing women's decision-making capacity in a contemporary context, focusing on socio-economic, cultural, and psychological factors. The study highlights the multifaceted nature of women's empowerment and the persistent challenges that hinder their full participation in decision-making processes. Key factors include education, employment, income, gender roles, cultural norms, family structure, psychological factors like self-confidence, risk aversion, and mental health, political and legal factors like legal rights, political participation, access to information, and healthcare. These factors interact in complex ways to shape women's decision-making capacity in various domains, including household decisions, healthcare decisions, education decisions, career decisions, and social and political decisions. The study employs a quantitative research design using a self-administered survey, with a convenience sample of 50 women aged 18-50 years from Silvassa, U.T. of DNH. The data collected is analysed using percentages. The findings highlight the need for more inclusive and equitable decision-making processes for women to enhance their agency and make informed choices.