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Can decent work promote fertility intention? The mediating role of work-family conflict

Author

Listed:
  • Yan Yan

    (Shanghai Dianji University)

  • Wenqian Bai

    (Shanghai Dianji University)

  • Yuqing Geng

    (Shanghai Dianji University)

  • Juan Gao

    (Shanghai Dianji University)

Abstract

With economic development and social progress, the low fertility rate among employed individuals is a significant concern for the government and academia. Decent work (DW) was proposed to improve work environment in conditions of freedom, equity, security, and human dignity. As the overall level of DW in society has increased, how does workers’ DW affect fertility intentions (FI)? To answer this question, we conducted a theoretical model based on conservation of resource (COR) theory among DW, work-family conflict (WFC), FI, organizational support (OS), family support (FS), gender and job autonomy (JA). It is found that DW can promote FI directly and indirectly by reducing WFC. OS and FS moderate the relationship between DW and WFC. The research findings expand the DW and COR application studies and provide a foundation for policymaking for government and organizations.

Suggested Citation

  • Yan Yan & Wenqian Bai & Yuqing Geng & Juan Gao, 2025. "Can decent work promote fertility intention? The mediating role of work-family conflict," Palgrave Communications, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 12(1), pages 1-14, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:palcom:v:12:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1057_s41599-025-04693-3
    DOI: 10.1057/s41599-025-04693-3
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