Exploring the Impact of Gender-based Violence on Female Entrepreneurs in the MSME Sectors in Tamil Nadu
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Gender-based violence (GBV) is a widespread but understudied impediment that can affect the entrepreneurial performance of women, especially in the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector in Tamil Nadu, India. Although there is growing involvement of women in business, there is little empirical studies on the impact of GBV in business activities and financial performance in the regions. The research problem examined the common occurrence and nature of GBV in female entrepreneurs and how they affect the performance of the business enterprise. The research design involved a quantitative cross-sectional study with 372 female entrepreneurs being interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Based on the analysis using descriptive statistics, multiple regression analysis and analysis of variance (ANOVA), the study identified that there is a statistically significant relationship between GBV and business outcomes and overall business outcomes (notably in terms of decision making ability, leadership effectiveness, employee management, and overall productivity). Nevertheless, the correlation between GBV and financial performance was determined to be insignificant, which is why the financial results might be affected by more general external factors like market specifics, the institutional environment, and business strategies. Considering the crosssectional characteristic of the study, causal links cannot be established. The study adds value to the literature because it incorporates social, psychological, and institutional viewpoints to elaborate how GBV affects the operations of an entrepreneur. It emphasizes the significance of gender responsive policies, institutional support mechanisms, and workplace interventions to reduce impact of GBV and facilitate sustainable and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems dealing with women.
Language: English
Subfield: Management of Technology and Innovation
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7155192545