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The relationships among part-time work, work-family interference, and well-being
Karen van Rijswijk1, Marrie H J Bekker, Christel G Rutte
1Department of Clinical Health Psychology, Tilburg University, 5000 LE Tilburg, Netherlands. K.vanRijswijk@uvt.nl
Journal of Occupational Health Psychology
|October 28, 2004
Summary
Part-time employment is linked to reduced work-family interference and improved well-being for mothers. This work-family balance benefit extends beyond those intentionally seeking reduced hours.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Sociology of Work
- Psychology
Background:
- Work-family interference negatively impacts employee well-being.
- Part-time work is often viewed as a strategy to mitigate work-family conflict.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of part-time work on work-family interference and well-being.
- To examine the mediating role of work-family interference in the relationship between part-time employment and well-being.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 160 part-time and 29 full-time employed mothers in the Netherlands.
- Statistical analysis controlling for part-time work as a deliberate strategy.
Main Results:
- Part-time work was associated with lower work-to-family interference.
- High work-family interference correlated with diminished well-being.
- Work-to-family interference mediated the link between part-time work and well-being.
Conclusions:
- Part-time jobs can improve work-family balance for all employees, not just those who choose it for that reason.
- Findings suggest broader benefits of flexible work arrangements for maternal well-being.