Women are significantly happier than they were 70 years ago, with the majority now saying they are happy to be female, a new poll suggests.
The research, conducted by BBC Radio 4’s ‘Woman’s Hour’, found that 86% of women in 2016 would rather be female than male, compared to 56% in 1947.
What’s more, women are also more positive about marriage in 2016, with 42% saying that they gave up equal amounts of freedom as their male partner, compared to 25% of all respondents in 1951.
Despite these improvements, the poll also revealed a large number of women now worry “a lot” about issues including health, money and their appearance.
The poll of more than 1,000 women found that those aged between 25 and 34 were most likely to be anxious about aspects of their life.
The biggest worry for women aged 25 to 34 is health, while finances came second and 46% said they are considering having cosmetic surgery.
It also found that there are more women in employment in 2016 than in 1951, with 60% working today compared to 31% then.
The poll was conducted ahead of ‘Woman’s Hour’s’ 70th anniversary and will be discussed on a special addiction show on Monday 10 October from 10am.
According to the Press Association, ‘Woman’s Hour’ editor Alice Feinstein said: “It’s fascinating to see the results of this candid poll and hear women’s views on family, work and relationships, and it’s intriguing to work out what’s changed and what’s remained the same since Woman’s Hour started 70 years ago.”
