Abstract
Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to highlight the factors that influence the decision of married women (in the age group of 16-60 years) to participate in labor force activities.
Design/methodology/approach - This is an empirical study employing the non-linear maximum likelihood probability (probit) function on primary data (3,911 observations).
Findings - Besides other variables it has been observed that poverty remains an important determinant of female labor participation.
Research limitations/implications - On the basis of this paper, a socio-economic policy can be formulated for a developing country like Pakistan.
Practical implications - A development policy (especially considering the gender aspects) can be formulated on the basis of this research for the enhancement of human resource development for a developing and an orthodox economy like Pakistan.
Originality/value - This paper is beneficial to researchers, policy makers, and social scientists for the enhancement of the level of social welfare and equity through its findings.