In this study, we direct our focus toward examining parental attitudes regarding girls' education. We conducted this research across four districts in West Bengal, specifically Birbhum, Purulia, Bankura, and Bardhaman. The study encompasses a total sample size of 864 individuals, comprising 408 from the ST (Scheduled Tribe) community and 456 from the SC (Scheduled Caste) community. Among these participants, 378 reside in urban areas, while 486 are from rural regions.
The primary variable under scrutiny in this investigation pertains to parental attitudes toward girls' education. We have categorized our data based on several variables, including community (SC & ST), gender (male & female), area (urban & rural), level of education (illiterate, primary, secondary, & higher), and socio-economic status (high, average, & low).
To gauge parental attitudes, we developed a scale specifically tailored for this purpose, which was designed by the researcher with guidance from an advisor. Additionally, we utilized an established tool to assess socio-economic status.
The objectives of this study are as follows:
To compare the attitudes of SC and ST parents regarding girls' education. To analyze the differences in attitudes toward girls' education among SC and ST parents residing in different areas, across different genders, various levels of education, and varying socio-economic status groups. Our data analysis primarily employs t-tests to evaluate the significance of differences in parental attitudes within the SC and ST communities, across gender lines, urban and rural settings, educational levels, and socio-economic status.
The major findings of this study are as follows:
A significant difference exists in mean scores concerning attitudes toward girls' education between SC and ST parents. Our results reveal a noteworthy disparity in mean scores regarding attitudes toward girls' education between rural and urban parents. Interestingly, we found no significant difference in mean scores regarding attitudes toward girls' education between male and female parents. Further exploration indicates a significant difference in mean scores regarding attitudes toward girls' education between parents with primary and secondary education. Lastly, our study highlights a significant difference in mean scores concerning attitudes toward girls' education between parents belonging to high and low socio-economic status groups.
