The ability of 'family friendly' organizational resources to predict work-family conflict and job and family satisfaction

Abstract

The effectiveness of organizational interventions in reducing the adverse consequences of work-family conflict has produced mixed findings. This paper examines the relationship between the use of organizational 'family friendly' resources (such as crèche facilities, flexible working hours, and job sharing), with levels of work-family conflict, and job and family satisfaction over time. Using structural equation modelling, these associations were tested in 398 employed men and women who each completed a self-report questionnaire administered on two occasions. The use of organizational interventions directly predicted increased levels of concurrent (Time 1) work-family interference and increased levels of subsequent (Time 2) job satisfaction. Both organizational interventions and family interventions (i.e. support) positively predicted subsequent family satisfaction. The research demonstrates that the provision of organizational 'family-friendly' practices will produce improved psychological outcomes for employees. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.