Work–Family Conflict and Depression Among Healthcare Workers: The Role of Sleep and Decision Latitude

Abstract

Background: Healthcare workers report a higher incidence of depression than the general population. Work–family conflict is a risk factor, but the mechanisms explaining its association with depression are not well understood. This study examines the potential mediating and moderating role of sleep and decision latitude in translating work–family conflict into depression. Methods: In 2018, a cross-sectional survey was collected from healthcare workers (n = 1,059) in five public sector facilities in the northeast United States. The survey included questions on participants’ work–family conflict, depression, sleep duration and disturbances, decision latitude, and other work environments and socio-demographic characteristics. Multivariable linear and Poisson regression modeling were used to examine associations among variables. Findings: There was a significant association between work–family conflict and depression (β = 2.70, p