Self-confidence and self-reliance impact of women through self help group with special reference to Gujarat

Abstract

Objective: The main objective of the study is to understand the impact of SHGs in empowering self-confidence and self-reliance of SHG women members in India with special reference to Gujarat. Methodology: The study is based on the systematic review of various literature related to the objective of the study. The secondary sources for review of literature were online thesis, journal articles and reports available in research websites. Results: The analysis of reviewed quantitative research studies reflected positive impact of SHGs on members both in India and Gujarat boosting up their self-confidence and self-reliance. However, qualitative research findings highlighted that there were barriers in boosting up the confidence levels in patriarchal system in Gujarat, where women still require permissions of their husbands or household members for several reasons. Conclusion: More qualitative research such as focus group discussions and case studies need to be encouraged in future for in-depth understanding of the barriers of SHG members in enhancing their self-confidence and probable means of overcoming these barriers.