Do Empowered Mothers Foster Gender Equity and Better Reproductive Health in the Next Generation?

This policy brief describes qualitative research conducted in three rural Bangladeshi villages between 2001 and 2003. The study methodology included "semi-structured in-depth interviews and small group discussions" with men and women in these villages. Particular attention was paid to both mothers and mothers-in-law, as women in the study areas tend to live with their mothers-in-law who, therefore, have a strong influence on their daughters' lives.



The researchers found evidence that empowered mothers and mothers-in-law had some effect on delaying childbirth among their daughters and sons. They also found spontaneous comments by the empowered women about the importance of birth spacing. The study cites samples of empowered women supporting their daughter's or daughter-in-law's involvement in the public sphere and in income-generating activities.



The researchers cite barriers to passing on empowerment, in the form of poverty and gender inequality. They note the power held by husbands and sons who may have more conservative ideas, the tradition of early marriage and the stigma of being childless.



The authors conclude that women "who were relatively empowered seemed to have a greater motivation and capacity" to improve the lives of their daughters and daughters-in-law. They see this as a reflection of the increased control of economic resources and increased capabilities for income generation and resource management. The researchers cite these examples of daughters helped by their empowered mothers and mother-in-laws as evidence of "real change" within their societies.