Women in law enforcement an empirical study of occupational challenges and role conflict faced by women in police

Abstract

The present study was an attempt to study occupational challenges and role-conflict faced by women in police. The research work is based on Primary data collected from Chandigarh and Mohali District using interview schedule method from 300 respondents and ten case studies. The present study is first of its kind on women in Police in the region. The study found that increase in number of women in police has increased presence of women in various policing units and activities. However, despite being part of various policing units and activities, even now they are playing quasirole only. They face occupational challenges, role conflict and general physical and mental health challenges due to police work culture , police subculture and absence of workplace facilities. They are unable to find suitable coping strategy to fight against harassment that they face for being women in profession dominated by men. The present study suggests that there is need to increase the recruitment of women in police at all the ranks of police hierarchy. It will alter police work culture, sub-culture, workplace facilities and make it more gender neutral, female gender sensitive and inclusive. Findings of the present research shall generate new knowledge which shall fill research gaps in the present literature relating to women Police. Further, present empirical research work is likely to enhance comprehension of concerned authorities relating to policy making for better representation/numerical strength, retention, performance, and gender mainstreaming of women in Police. newline