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How do work-family balance practices affect work-family conflict? The differential roles of work stress

Author

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  • Xiaoxi Chang

    (Rey Juan Carlos University)

  • Yu Zhou

    (School of Business, Renmin University of China)

  • Chenxi Wang

    (School of Business, Renmin University of China)

  • Carmen de Pablos Heredero

    (Rey Juan Carlos University)

Abstract

This paper investigates the relationship between employees’ perception of work-family balance practices and work-family conflicts. It examines the role of challenge stress and hindrance stress as moderators. Based on survey data collected from 841 civil servants in Beijing, we found that perceived work-family balance practices may reduce work-family conflict, while challenge and hindrance work stresses were positively related to work-family conflict. In addition, challenge and hindrance stresses differentially moderated the relationship between perceived work-family practices and work-family conflict. When challenge stress is high then work-family balance practices will reduce work-family conflict. However, under high hindrance stress, work-family balance practices will serve to reduce work-family conflict less. More detailed analysis of the configurational dimensions of work-family balance practices (work flexibility, and employee and family wellness care) are also tested. This study provides additional insight into the management of work-family interfaces and offers ideas for future research.

Suggested Citation

  • Xiaoxi Chang & Yu Zhou & Chenxi Wang & Carmen de Pablos Heredero, 2017. "How do work-family balance practices affect work-family conflict? The differential roles of work stress," Frontiers of Business Research in China, Springer, vol. 11(1), pages 1-22, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:fobric:v:11:y:2017:i:1:d:10.1186_s11782-017-0008-4
    DOI: 10.1186/s11782-017-0008-4
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Nida Zahoor & Nazlina Zakaria & Nor Azimah Chew Abdullah, 2021. "Is Gender Still Important in Defining the Work-Family Conflict of Married Employees in 21st Century?," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 5(11), pages 658-664, November.

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