UNDERSTANDING THE DYNAMICS OF WORK-LIFE BALANCE, JOB SATISFACTION, AND TEACHER RETENTION IN MAHARASHTRA’S HIGHER EDUCATION

Abstract

This study examines the impact of work-life balance on job satisfaction and intention to leave among teachers employed in higher educational institutions in Maharashtra, India. Using Online data collected from 386 teachers across five districts, the study employs Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to identify key factors affecting work-life balance and their relationship with job satisfaction. The findings reveal significant challenges faced by teachers, including excessive working hours, inflexible schedules, and the pressure to remain connected to work outside official hours. These factors contribute to lower job satisfaction and an increased intention to leave their current positions. The study highlights the need for organizational interventions to promote better work-life balance and retain employees in the higher education sector. This research adds to the limited literature on work-life balance in educational institutions and offers recommendations for improving job satisfaction and reducing turnover intentions among teachers.