Abstract

Empowerment is a multi-staged process in which women’s growing awareness of their inner needs and wants strengthens their confidence and ability to implement their goals. This research studies the factors related to women’s empowerment. The theoretical framework is women’s empowerment for participation in development which has been strongly influenced by feminist thought, particularly liberal feminism. A survey was conducted on 380 women between 20 to 25 years of age residing in Isfahan. The research found that higher education level, access to financial resources, better health, legal property rights, eradication of labor market discrimination, and elimination of traditional beliefs contribute to women’s empowerment.

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