The role of parental attitudes and cultural norms in shaping female education in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Abstract

The literacy rate among females is a pressing issue in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Pakistan. The economic factors are well documented, while the cultural factors such as purdah, early marriage and parental attitudes need further study. The objective of the study was to explore the cultural and parental factors that obstruct the female education level in KP. Descriptive survey was conducted in 10. A structured questionnaire was used and the data were analyzed descriptively (frequencies and percentages). The study found that 71% of students reported parental discrimination in education, with male parents (91.5%) overwhelmingly dominating educational decision-making. While 90% believed purdah should be observed, 60-74% did not believe it prevents girls’ education, suggesting evolving cultural attitudes. Early marriage was practiced by 70% of families, and 88% identified it as a restricting factor in female education. The majority (70-75%) reported no negative effects of female education, though 68% identified non-earning status of women as a cause of deprivation from education. Significantly, 85.5% believed educated women perform domestic duties, challenging the perception that education makes women neglect household responsibilities. Cultural and parental barriers significantly constrain girls’ education in KP. However, the finding that most students distinguish between purdah and education, and do not perceive negative effects of female education, and suggested the evolving cultural attitudes.