The Multiple Roles of Women in Poor Household in Urban Communities

Abstract

The multiple roles of women has a significant impact on the shift in function and values in the family. In addition to carrying out domestic and reproductive functions, women also function as a source of production in the family. Even so, women often get abused by their husbands. Therefore, this study intends to describe the factors causing the multiple roles of women in poor households in urban cities. Methodologically, this research uses a qualitative approach through case studies. The research data were obtained through observation and in-depth interviews with informants of three cases of poor households. After all data have been collected, the descriptive qualitative data analysis is then performed. The results of the study revealed that the causes of women in three poor households had multiple roles, namely; lack of husband's income, exploitation of women, domestic violence, and cultural factors. Thus it was concluded that women in poor households in urban areas who have multiple roles are manifestations of gender inequity at the expense of women. Therefore, women's empowerment movement and education on the role of household division are needed so that men and women can perform functions in a balanced manner.

Sharia Microfinance Models: A Grameen Bank Approach for Sustainable Construction and Welfare Enhancement

“…In urban areas of Indonesia, households headed by women have a higher poverty rate than those headed by men (Purnomo, 2018;Rahmitha et al, 2016). Additionally, there is a prevailing belief that men are responsible for family honor, which limits women's decision-making power and their ability to contribute to the family's economy (Ahriani, 2020). Therefore, providing access to resources can help free women from poverty.…”