Explaining the effect of work–nonwork boundary management fit on satisfaction and performance at home through reduced time- and strain-based work–family conflict

Abstract

This two-study paper examines how employees' work–nonwork boundary management fit influences their performance in and satisfaction with their family life, through the experience of time- and strain-based work–family conflict. We performed two studies with working parents (N = 160 and N = 158, respectively) using a different time lag and applied structural equation modeling techniques to analyze the data. In Study 1 (time lag: 12 months), our results show that work–nonwork boundary management fit relates to family satisfaction and performance through reduced strain-based work–family conflict. In Study 2 (time lag: 1 month), we find a mediating effect of time-based work–family conflict in the relation between work–nonwork boundary management fit and family satisfaction and a direct effect of work–nonwork boundary management fit on family performance. work–nonwork boundary management fit seems to have a short-term effect on family outcomes (family satisfaction in particular) through time-based work–family conflict, whereas the mediating effect of strain-based conflict evolves more slowly over time. Our findings show that work–nonwork boundary management fit is to be taken into account when trying to establish a harmonious work–family interface as part of creating a sustainable workforce.