GENDER ROLES IN THE UZBEK FAMILY AND THEIR INFLUENCE ON MARITAL RELATIONSHIPS

Abstract

Gender roles in Uzbek families have traditionally been shaped on the basis of a patriarchal structure, where the man is regarded as the head and provider of the family, while the woman is viewed as a housewife, mother, and educator. This distribution of roles has a profound impact on marital relationships: on the one hand, it ensures family stability and cultural continuity, while on the other hand, under conditions of modern socio-economic changes, it may intensify misunderstandings, psychological stress, and feelings of inequality. The article analyzes the historical, cultural, and psychological foundations of gender roles, reveals their positive and negative impacts on spousal relationships, and examines ways to ensure gender equality in family relations. The research findings show that finding a balance between traditional roles and modern demands is of great importance for family harmony and social development.