Work’s intrusion in home affairs : evidence on work–family conflict from a german nationwide panel

Abstract

Recent research in the fields of management and labor economics suggest that multiple work-specific features affect work–family conflict. The intent of this thesis is to extend the empirical evidence on the ramifications of flexibility and work-related communication technology on work–family conflict. In addition, this study analyzes the effects of work–family conflict on employee well-being. The analyses of this thesis are based on the two wave German nationwide Linked Personnel Panel data (employees N = 14,790; companies N = 1,990), from the Institute for Employment Research. To our knowledge, there are no similar studies with such a large and rich sample. Our contribution to the research topic affirms theories—that employee driven location and time flexibility has significant effect on conflict between work and family. The findings document that contractual home- or teleworking reduces work–family conflict. Furthermore, we observe that adaptable working hour schemes reduce work– family conflict. In accordance with established theory, we find that usage of workrelated communication technology during leisure time increases the work–family conflict. Work–family conflict is witnessed to be a solid indicator of reduction in employee well-being. Given the results, we conclude that companies should consider implementing relevant guidelines and labor policies in order to reduce the conflict between work and family life.