Social Role Expectations And The Mental Well-Being Of Women: Challenges And Coping Strategies

Abstract

Background: In traditional societies, women often face multifaceted societal expectations that shape their roles as caregivers, professionals, and community members. These expectations can have a profound impact on their mental well-being.

Objective: This study aims to examine the relationship between societal role expectations and mental well-being in women, and to explore the coping strategies employed to manage these pressures.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was [1]conducted in Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan, involving 350 adult women selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising sections on perceived societal role expectations, mental well-being (measured using the GHQ-12), and coping strategies (assessed through the Brief COPE Inventory).

Results: A significant proportion of participants (72%) reported high levels of societal role expectations, particularly related to family prioritization, domestic responsibilities, and adherence to traditional gender roles. Psychological distress (GHQ-12 score ≥12) was observed in 41.7% of participants. Women with higher perceived role expectations had significantly higher GHQ-12 scores (mean = 15.1 ± 3.2) compared to those with lower expectations (mean = 11.2 ± 3.6; p < 0.001). Regression analysis revealed that societal role expectations (β = 0.53, p < 0.001) and maladaptive coping strategies (β = 0.31, p = 0.004) were significant predictors of poor mental health.

Conclusion: The findings highlight that rigid societal role expectations are strongly associated with compromised mental well-being among women. This psychological burden is further exacerbated by the use of maladaptive coping mechanisms and the lack of accessible mental health support.