SOCIO-ECONOMIC PATHWAYS TO FEMALE INVOLVEMENT IN CRIME: THE CASE OF PAKISTAN

Abstract

The primary aim of this research is to examine the socio-economic factors contributing to female criminality in Pakistan. Women’s involvement in crime has evolved over time, influenced by industrialization, technological advancements, improved communication and transportation, and the pervasive impact of mass media. For this study, thirteen female offenders were purposively selected from the target population using a convenience sampling technique, based on the inclusion criterion that their sentences had been formally declared by a court. An interview guide was developed, covering themes such as socio-demographic characteristics, criminal history, and social and economic factors, to conduct in-depth interviews. The findings reveal that women committed crimes primarily due to economic hardships, family conflicts, greed and material desire, the pursuit of love, and the preservation of family honor. The study recommends urgent measures to strengthen women’s socio-economic and familial roles in order to curb female criminality in Pakistan.