Exploring the Factors Influencing Work-Life Balance: A Study on the Perception of Work-Life Balance Among Teachers in Rural Areas

Abstract

This research strives to create sustainable mechanisms, which will enhance work-life balance (WLB) among teachers in Uttarakhand, India. A quantitative research design was applied using a structured questionnaire to capture data of 194 rural teachers who were selected using stratified random sampling between January and March 2024. The study investigated the connection between workload, teaching environment perceptions, and demographic variables and WLB. Correlation, regression, and factor using SPSS were used in statistical analysis. The findings indicated that there was a significant negative relationship between workload and WLB (r = 0.732, p < 0.001); strong positive relationship between teaching environment perceptions and WLB (r = 0.821, p < 0.001). Age, gender, and marital status played off as significant predictors (R2 = 0.510, p < 0.001) as well. These results contextualize the necessity of specific measures (workload control, flexible time, and support systems in institutions) to support the well-being and retention of rural teachers.