Perceived Social Status of Domestic Workers Among Urban Working Women

This study investigates the perceived social status and role of domestic workers among urban working women, focusing on how their support affects work–life balance, mental and physical well-being, and productivity. With the rapid pace of urbanization, globalization, and increased participation of women in the formal workforce, domestic workers have become integral to the functioning of middle-class urban households. Despite their critical contributions, domestic workers often remain undervalued and subject to social hierarchies and stigma. Adopting a quantitative, descriptive, and analytical approach, the study collected data from working women in the Mumbai region who employ domestic workers. A structured questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale was used, and responses were analyzed using correlation and regression techniques. Reliability testing confirmed the robustness and consistency of the instrument. The analysis highlights that domestic workers play a pivotal role in reducing the mental and physical workload of working women, supporting time management, and enhancing productivity. Beyond their functional support, domestic workers also contribute significantly to sustaining the professional and personal lives of women, yet their work is often socially undervalued. The study underscores the need for increased legal protections, standardized wage policies, and broader societal recognition to ensure that domestic workers receive the respect and support commensurate with their contributions. By examining both the practical and social dimensions of domestic work, this research sheds light on the indispensable role domestic workers play in urban economies and the lives of working women. The findings call for policy interventions and social reforms that acknowledge and enhance the status of domestic workers, while promoting equitable and supportive working environments for women in urban India.