Gendered Care: Insights into Intellectual Disability In India

This review explores the gendered dimensions of caregiving for intellectual disabilities (ID) in India, focusing on the unique challenges faced by female caregivers due to societal expectations and cultural norms. The primary aim is to analyze the intersection of gender and caregiving within the context of ID. Specific objectives include: examining traditional gender roles; assessing emotional impacts on caregivers; evaluating existing support systems; and, proposing gender-sensitive policy recommendations. Employing a qualitative, interpretive methodology, the study synthesizes literature from various sources, utilizing frameworks from feminist theory, psychoanalysis, and psychiatry. Data was gathered through a systematic review process guided by the PRISMA framework. Findings reveal that female caregivers experience significant emotional and physical burdens, often exacerbated by societal stigma and inadequate support. Male caregivers, while less recognized, face their own challenges related to societal expectations and involvement in caregiving roles. The analysis underscores the need for gender-sensitive approaches to caregiving, highlighting the impact of traditional roles on both male and female caregivers. It calls for targeted interventions that address the unique challenges faced by caregivers in different socio-economic contexts. This review contributes to the discourse on disability and gender in India, advocating for inclusive policies that recognize and support the diverse experiences of caregivers, ultimately enhancing the quality of care for individuals with ID.