JOURNAL OF BUSINESS DIVERSITY

The Role of Gender in Explaining Motives for Business

Informality and Formalization

Author(s): Justina Lucas Utouh

Citation: Justina Lucas Utouh, (2013) "The Role of Gender in Explaining Motives for Business Informality and Formalization," Journal of Business Diversity, Vol. 13, Iss. 1/2, pp. 96 - 107

Article Type: Research paper

Publisher: North American Business Press

Abstract:

This research work sought to explain how motives for business informality and formalization are

explained by gender. Data was collected through plain interviews, in-depth interviews, interviewee

triangulation, participant observation, and documentary analysis. Data was analyzed using open, axial

and selective coding Straussian grounded theory procedures. Findings suggest that access to education

and subsequent positive perception of formalization whether it is worth doing or not are crucial in

determining motives for business informality and formalization. It is necessary therefore, to ensure

equitable access to education and to address simultaneously awareness, capacity, regulatory and gender

issues in fostering formalization of businesses in developing countries.