Barriers to Women’s Sports Participation in Punjab

Women’s participation in sports in Punjab is limited by sociological and psychological barriers. This study investigates these barriers in two culturally distinct regions: Doaba and Malwa. A quantitative research design was employed, and data were collected from 200 women aged 18–25 (100 from each region) using a self-constructed questionnaire administered via Google Forms. The questionnaire examined sociological barriers (family pressure, societal expectations, gender discrimination, and limited access to sports facilities) and psychological barriers (stress, anxiety, fear of judgment, and low self-confidence). Data were analyzed using SPSS, and independent samples t-tests were conducted to compare the regions. Results reveal that women in Malwa experience significantly higher sociological and psychological barriers than women in Doaba. In Doaba, sociological barriers are partially mitigated by diaspora influence, resulting in lower psychological stress. In Malwa, stronger traditional norms and societal expectations amplify both external and internal challenges.The findings highlight the interconnection between societal pressures and psychological barriers, emphasizing the need for region-specific, culturally sensitive interventions. Recommendations include community awareness programs, family engagement initiatives, psychological counseling, mentorship schemes, improved sports infrastructure, and policy enforcement to enhance women’s sports participation in Punjab

Diaspora · Mentorship · Sociological research · Sociological theory · Sociology of sport · Sport management · Recreation, Leisure, Wilderness Management · Sport and Mega-Event Impacts · Sports, Gender, and Society