Virtual office and family life

Abstract

This paper considers the effects of teleworking on family life. In contrast to the substantial literature considering telework from a managerial and, to a lesser extent, individual perspective, there has been far less consideration of the impact of teleworking on family life. This paper argues for the need to study home-based teleworking with an inclusive perspective, looking at teleworking as more than just an organisational initiative, or an opportunity for particular workers, but as a major change in lifestyle which may affect the whole family unit. It proposes a framework for such a study based on an exploration of changes in family rules and norms.