Empowerment Dynamics: Exploring the Impact of Self-Help Groups on Rural Women

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to examine how Social Empowerment (SE) and Economic Empowerment (EE) affect Total Empowerment (TE) among women, using an ordinal regression method. The research seeks to explore the relationship between these dimensions of empowerment and their combined impact on women's overall empowerment. Design/Methodology/Approach: This study utilizes a quantitative research methodology, incorporating both primary and secondary data sources. Primary data are gathered via a structured questionnaire distributed to members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in Kottayam District, Kerala. Secondary data are sourced from existing literature and financial reports. To analyze the data and examine the relationships between variables, statistical methods such as Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests, ordinal regression, and Spearman's correlation coefficient analysis are utilized. Findings/Result: The results indicate that both Social Empowerment (SE) and Economic Empowerment (EE) are significant predictors of Total Empowerment (TE) among women. The ordinal regression model demonstrates a strong association between SE, EE, and TE, highlighting the importance of addressing both social and economic dimensions for women's empowerment. Additionally, strong positive correlations are observed between TE and SE, TE and EE, and SE and EE, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these empowerment dimensions. Originality/Value: This research enhances the existing literature by offering insights into the multifaceted nature of women's empowerment, especially within the context of Self-Help Groups (SHGs). By examining the impact of SE and EE on TE and exploring their interrelationships, the study offers valuable understanding of the factors driving overall empowerment outcomes among women. The findings highlight the necessity of simultaneously addressing both social and economic empowerment to improve women's well-being and socio-economic status. Paper Type: Empirical Research.