Scholars have by and large discussed three core concepts, which include; the traditional breadwinner role in Punjab; changes in this role in Punjabi in contemporary society; and changes in the breadwinner role in Punjabi families who have migrated to Western countries. In the first case, research suggests that prior to World War I, most Punjabis lived in peasant villages where farming was the major economic activity (Gill & Matthews, 1995). During this time, men were responsible for agricultural production or running businesses, and women played a vital role in the home by making food, and bearing children. In essence, women were considered weaker and dependent on their male counterparts. However, this is somewhat contradicting because women play a direct role in farming operations, but yet men were generally defined as the breadwinners. Furthermore, in her study, Sharma points out that women in a Punjabi village are responsible for the care and breeding of milk cattle and buffaloes (Sharma, 1980). Milk from a cow brings forth a considerable amount of cash income with every lactation period, so here women do participate in bringing home a type of
Scholars have by and large discussed three core concepts, which include; the traditional breadwinner role in Punjab; changes in this role in Punjabi in contemporary society; and changes in the breadwinner role in Punjabi families who have migrated to Western countries. In the first case, research suggests that prior to World War I, most Punjabis lived in peasant villages where farming was the major economic activity (Gill & Matthews, 1995). During this time, men were responsible for agricultural production or running businesses, and women played a vital role in the home by making food, and bearing children. In essence, women were considered weaker and dependent on their male counterparts. However, this is somewhat contradicting because women play a direct role in farming operations, but yet men were generally defined as the breadwinners. Furthermore, in her study, Sharma points out that women in a Punjabi village are responsible for the care and breeding of milk cattle and buffaloes (Sharma, 1980). Milk from a cow brings forth a considerable amount of cash income with every lactation period, so here women do participate in bringing home a type of