Work, Livelihood and Career | Class 12 Home Science Notes

Work, Age and Gender

This section discusses how age and gender influence work dynamics at both individual and societal levels. It highlights the vulnerability of children, women, and elderly in the workforce, emphasizing the need for appropriate work suited to their physiological and psychological states. The section distinguishes between 'sex' (biological differences) and 'gender' (socially constructed roles and identities). It explains how societal norms dictate expected behaviors and work roles for men and women, often leading to stereotyped gender roles. Despite women's active participation in agriculture, animal husbandry, domestic labor, and urban employment, they often face lack of decision-making power and recognition. The unpaid domestic work of women is undervalued economically, though it significantly supports family functioning. Women face a double burden of paid work and household responsibilities. The section calls for education and empowerment of women to achieve equality and recognition. It also outlines constitutional guarantees and legal protections for women workers, including various acts and government initiatives aimed at improving women's employment conditions and opportunities. The evolution of women's programs from welfare to development approaches is noted, emphasizing the need for societal mindset change.

🧪 Activity: Activity 5: Find out about organisations or individuals empowering women locally and prepare a scrapbook for school display. Activity 6: Collect information on women in your region who have contributed significantly to society. Activity 7: Prepare a power point presentation on distinguished women in various fields.

🔗 Connection: This section leads to the discussion on attitudes and approaches to work, life skills, and quality of work life, focusing on individual and social perspectives.