Interrole conflict between work and family : antecedents and consequences for dual-earner couples

Abstract

This study extends more recent findings that support interrole conflict as consisting of two distinct constructs: work interfering with family (WIF) and family interfering with work (FIW). Unique antecedents and consequences were tested for WIF and FIW in separate models, along with an exploratory model of interrole conflict. A sample of 88 dual-earner couples with children was selected to examine WIF and FIW within families. Results from structural equation modelling supported the proposed model of WIF, but not FIW. The exploratory models shed further light on how interrole conflict operates. The variables identified as potential antecedents of WIF were specific to the work domain, while WIF seemed to have consequences for both work and home life. WIF was identified as a potential antecedent of FIW for both partners. As well, wives' household activities seemed to alleviate FIW for their husbands. The consequences of FIW seemed to lie only in the work domain. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for family patterns and organizational policies.