Explaining the Psychological Factors Affecting the Empowerment of Rural Women (The Case of Likak County)

Women's empowerment based on the equality in all economic and social aspects is the cornerstone of achieving development. The goal of this study was investigating the factors affecting rural women's empowerment. The statistical population of this study was rural women (15 to 64 years old) in Likak County in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province (N=1300). The sample size (n=300) was determined using the Krejcie & Morgan's Table that selected through random sampling. Data were collected through a researcher made questionnaire. The questionnaire validity was approved by experts in agricultural extension and education. Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficients were approved by a pilot study (0.65–0.88). The results of structural equation modeling analysis revealed that stereotype has a direct and negative effect on women's empowerment. Self-esteem and motivation achievement had direct and positive effect on women's empowerment.