Quality of Life among Working and Non-Working Women in a Community

Abstract

Introduction: Job is considered one of the most essential factors for determining women`s quality of life. However, due to dual responsibilities of women i.e., job and traditional house chore roles, they often suffer from physical as well as mental problems. Many factors may influence quality of life of women amongst them work is the important one. The aim of the study was to compare the quality of life of working and non-working women.

Methods: Descriptive cross sectional research design was used. Sampling method was convenient sampling technique with total sample 140 women, among them 70 working and 70 non-working women of Rampur municipality. Face to face interview was taken to collect data using quality of life measurement tool developed by WHO (WHOQOL-BREF). Descriptive statistic (frequencies, percentage mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (chi square and independent t test) were used to analyze data.

Results: Working women had high mean score in all domain WHOQOL-BREF. There was significance difference in mean score of physical (working 62.19±13.30, non-working women (59.59±14.43), (p<0.001)., psychological (working 56.85±14.43, non-working women 51.90±13.77, (p=0,013) and environmental (working 52.50±12.93,49.51 ± 14.30 with p value 0.034) domains in working and non-working women respectively.

Conclusion: Working women have a better quality of life compared to non-working women. Moreover, literate women reported a better quality of life than illiterate. Hence, strengthening initiatives that improve women's education and skill levels, enabling them to access better employment opportunities, which significantly contribute to their quality of life.