Institutional Support, Sociocultural Barriers, and Career Advancement Among Women Police Officers: A Case Study of District Bhakkar, Punjab, Pakistan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55737/trt/v-v.286Keywords:
Institutional Support, Socio-Cultural, Psychological Challenges, Professional Growth, Well-Being of Women PoliceAbstract
The present study examines the institutional, socio-cultural, and psychological challenges faced by women police officers in District Bhakkar, Punjab, Pakistan. Gender-based discrimination, restricted career progression, and work-related stress are common challenges faced by women officers that impact their job performance and well-being. The primary aim of this study is to investigate their impact on women constables' job satisfaction, career progression and mental well-being in a male-dominated police force. The aim of the study was to find the level of gender discrimination, socio-cultural factors influencing the performance, analyze to institutional support mechanisms, and evaluate the psychological effect of working conditions of women officers. For this study, the researcher used quantitative research approach. A structured questionnaire on 5-point Likert scale was used to gather data from 108 women police constables. Demographic and perceptual data were assessed using descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation, whereas inferential statistics like chi-square tests examined variable correlations. The findings reveal that gender discrimination, work-life imbalance, lack of promotion opportunities, and inadequate institutional support are the most significant challenges faced by respondents. Furthermore, psychological stress and emotional exhaustion were found to be highly prevalent among women officers due to tough job conditions and limited support systems. The study concludes that both institutional and socio-cultural factors significantly hinder the professional growth and well-being of women participants in District Bhakkar. It recommends policy reforms, gender-sensitive training, improved workplace facilities, and stronger psychological support systems to enhance gender equality and organizational effectiveness in policing institutions.
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