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Work-to-relationship conflict: crossover effects in dual-earner couples
Russell A Matthews1, Regan E Del Priore, Linda K Acitelli
1Department of Psychology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA. Russell.Matthews@uconn.edu
Journal of Occupational Health Psychology
|July 13, 2006
Summary
Work interference impacts relationships, with conflict spilling over between partners in dual-earner couples. This study reveals direct crossover effects on relationship tension, health, and satisfaction.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Family Studies
Background:
- Work-life balance is a significant concern for dual-earner couples.
- Understanding the impact of work-to-relationship conflict is crucial for relationship well-being.
- Crossover effects, where one partner's experiences influence the other, are under-examined in this context.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the outcomes of work-to-relationship conflict in dual-earner couples.
- To examine the crossover effects of work interference on relationship tension, health symptoms, and satisfaction.
- To apply the actor-partner interdependence model to dyadic data in work-family research.
Main Methods:
- Surveyed 113 dual-earner couples regarding work-to-relationship conflict.
- Assessed personal conflict experiences and perceptions of partner's conflict.
- Measured relationship tension, health symptoms, and relationship satisfaction.
Main Results:
- Personal work-to-relationship conflict was linked to individual outcomes.
- Perceptions of a partner's work-to-relationship conflict affected both partners.
- Direct crossover effects were evident across multiple relationship outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Work interference significantly impacts both individuals and their partners within dual-earner relationships.
- Crossover effects are a key mechanism through which work-life conflict operates in couples.
- The actor-partner interdependence model provides a valuable framework for analyzing dyadic work-family data.
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