Understanding Decision-Making Patterns Among Older Women in Pathan Households of Mardan, Pakistan: An Intra-generational Perspective

Abstract

This study investigates the decision-making experiences of older women in Pathan households in Mardan, Pakistan. The focus is on the cultural and traditional norms and their evolving gender roles shaping their liberty to make decisions in family and community. The researcher used a purposive sampling technique to select the sample, which includes eight married women aged 60 and above from diverse educational backgrounds. Semi-structured interviews were used as a data collection tool, and analysis was done under three main themes: Gender hierarchy in Pathan culture, Cultural expectations and sacrifices of women, and Evolving gender dynamics. The results showed that traditionally men are more dominant in decision-making and women play the role of aides. Although there are a number of cultural barriers, this study enlightens us that older women are contributing to change these dynamics by promoting the importance of education and independence for the next generations. Specifically, the shift towards mutual decision-making within families, particularly among younger couples, signifies the gradual move towards gender equality in decision-making. This study underscores older women as key agents of revolution by bridging the gap between traditional and modern gender roles.

Keywords: Older women, decision-making, gender roles, cultural norms, gender equality