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Transforming households: exploring the impact of health on the economic prosperity of female home-based workers

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  • Aribah Aslam

    (Beaconhouse National University)

  • Ghulam Ghouse

    (Beaconhouse National University)

Abstract

This study delves into the challenges faced by female home-based workers in the context of gender disparity, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan. Despite the growing significance of low-earning female labor forces in the country’s economy, insufficient attention has been given to addressing their health issues, which can have profound implications for their household economics and overall well-being. Through a comparative case study of upper and lower Punjab in Pakistan, this research aims to examine the role of improved health status in preventing female home-based workers from falling into poverty. The analysis utilizes survey data from BOS and empirically investigates the influence of health, along with other contributing factors such as experience, education, and market knowledge, on the earnings of female home-based workers. The findings underscore the vital role of these factors, including health, in shaping the economic outcomes of female home-based workers within their households. The discussion section explores the implications of these empirical findings, shedding light on potential pathways connecting health, earnings, education, experience, and market knowledge. By providing policymakers with valuable insights, this study offers opportunities to improve the economic well-being of female home-based workers and their households in Pakistan.

Suggested Citation

  • Aribah Aslam & Ghulam Ghouse, 2025. "Transforming households: exploring the impact of health on the economic prosperity of female home-based workers," International Review of Economics, Springer;Happiness Economics and Interpersonal Relations (HEIRS), vol. 72(1), pages 1-21, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:inrvec:v:72:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1007_s12232-025-00485-y
    DOI: 10.1007/s12232-025-00485-y
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Qualitative health research; Research practice; Health; Earnings;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination
    • J21 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Labor Force and Employment, Size, and Structure

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