GENDER EQUALITY AND WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT: A COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Women's empowerment and gender equality are crucial for social development and the welfare of communities in India. Despite advancements by women in education, work, financial inclusion, household decisions, and civic engagement, inequality remains due to traditional gender roles, economic reliance, unequal caregiving responsibilities, and wider social and structural obstacles. This chapter explores these matters from a community psychology viewpoint, highlighting how empowerment is influenced by individual, family, community, institutional, and societal elements. It emphasises the significance of education, economic autonomy, financial accessibility, engagement, and collaborative efforts in empowering women’s agency. Strategies rooted in the community, like self-help groups and local organizations, are shown to be effective avenues for change. The section highlights the significance of community psychology in advancing social justice, prevention efforts, engagement, and strength-focused strategies. Achieving sustainable gender equality necessitates unified actions from women, families, communities, institutions, and policymakers to create inclusive and supportive environments for all women and girls everywhere now.