A review of research on the role of women in family business

Abstract

The decades of the 20th century were characterised by a multitude of global phenomena. Furthermore, this period saw the influx of women into the labour market and their subsequent integration as self-employed individuals. The significance of this issue is evident when viewed in the context of a re-evaluation of conventional notions regarding the role of women in society and the economy. Until recently, in sociological literature, the role of women in the development process was primarily examined through the lens of their reproductive function or contribution to labor resources, while their economic potential was largely overlooked. The contribution of women to the labour force was regarded as insignificant and informal. The societal attitudes towards women's labour are shaped by historical dependence on men, limited access to creativity, power and capital, and various forms of discrimination. This article presents a review of research on the role of women in family businesses in the context of sociological science. It begins with a definition of the term "family business" and then emphasises the role of women in this sphere from the perspective of different sociological approaches. Subsequently, the research literature on this topic in domestic, Russian, and foreign sociological science was analysed. Additionally, the article discusses the challenges women face in family businesses and the factors that contribute to their involvement in this field.

The role of women in family businesses is becoming a subject of increasing interest within the academic community, and there has been a notable increase in their influence on the success and sustainability of organisations. The advancement of leadership abilities, accessibility to resources and endorsement of their involvement in business operations serve to reinforce the tenets of family entrepreneurship.