Problems faced by women headed families (Jaffna, Thirunelveli, J/114, North Grama Sevakar Division)

Abstract

The most basic unit at the social and economic level is the family. The movement of the world's social system as the main unit is based on the family. The family plays an essential and unique role in the life of every individual. These families are also a bulwark of security and a place to meet the needs of the members. In particular, family leadership is perceived having various responsibilities and obligations such as financing, managing the house, making decisions, socializing, and improving the quality of life. Most probably, the fact that family leadership operated under men is evident in our society. It is noteworthy that earning income and meeting the needs of family members are highly depended on the working man or husband. It is undeniable that the contribution of men to the economic development process is greater in every household than that of women. However, when women assume the leadership responsibilities, the situation demands them to accept the greater burdens of family. There are many factors influencing in accepting the familial leadership, factors such as divorce, loss of a working man or spouse, and physical disabilities influence here. Thus, women who have been carrying out familial activities under the auspices of a man are subjected to a variety of problems especially when they accept the familial activities alone. This study serves as an empowerment activity for those women facing such issues. Thus, this study was carried out amidst one hundred poverty-stricken families out of two hundred and sixty-three women-headed families, which were under one community located at Jaffna, Thirunelveli J/114, Grama sevakar Division. This study is an attempt to identify the problems faced by the women-headed families and to come up with solutions for them. In addition, the study aims to improve the quality of life of these families. This study was conducted using primary and secondary data. The research data were obtained and analyzed on the basis of primary and secondary data such as direct interviews, discussion, questionnaire and field observation as well as books, dissertations, rural development manuals. Solutions to the problems of women in the study area are prioritized and presented through this research.