Patriarchal Dynamics and Political Participation: A Comprehensive Analysis of Educated Women's Experiences in Urban Pakistan

Abstract

The study draws on the theoretical frameworks of patriarchy and intersectionality. The theory of patriarchy, rooted in feminist thought, explores how familial power dynamics perpetuate male dominance and restrict women's agency. The study challenges the prevailing notion that patriarchal norms are the sole determinants of women's political participation. Intersectionality theory highlights the interconnectedness of various factors, such as education and marital status, shaping women's experiences in political participation. Additionally, the Resource Mobilization Theory enriches the analysis, emphasizing how educated women strategically leverage resources like education, economic independence, and urban settings to overcome barriers and actively engage in politics. This study adopts a mixed methods approach to investigate the relationship between patriarchy in the family and political participation among educated women in urban Pakistan. The quantitative component involves a cross-sectional survey of 400 female university students, focusing on political participation indicators. Simultaneously, in-depth qualitative interviews are conducted with 30 highly qualified teachers from selected universities, offering rich insights into the impact of patriarchy and the interplay of education, employment, and residence on political engagement. This mixed methods design ensures a comprehensive exploration of the research questions, enhancing the robustness of the study.