Beyond Family: How Support Networks Shape Urban Women's Work Participation

Aditi Prasad, International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS)
Aparajita Chattopadhyay, International Institute for Population Sciences, India

The female labour force participation in India is notably low, particularly among urban households. This study explores the complex relationship between support networks and the labour force participation of urban women, with a focus on young mothers in Delhi-NCR, India. Drawing on data from 193 women and 30 in-depth interviews, this mixed-methods research investigates how multiple components of support affect women’s engagement in the paid workforce. The results indicate that women with higher support density are nearly four times more likely to work, particularly those receiving childcare support. The intensity of support plays a crucial role: women receiving more intense housework support from domestic workers or high-intensity childcare support from their mothers-in-law are more likely to be employed. Women with strong support networks are able to manage demanding careers, while those lacking support struggle to engage in paid work. Support received is gendered, with women bearing the primary responsibility for childcare and household tasks, while men provide limited support, often when explicitly asked to. Gaps in system support, particularly reliable childcare options, remain a significant barrier. This study highlights the need for expanding affordable childcare options and encouraging a more balanced distribution of domestic responsibilities to support women’s workforce participation.

Keywords: Gender Dynamics, Families, Unions and Households, Mixed methods research, Social network methods

See extended abstract.