An examination of gender differences in the impact of individual and organisational factors on work hours, work-life conflict and psychological strain in academics

Research output: Contribution to a Journal (Peer & Non Peer)Articlepeer-review

Abstract

The current study used multi-group structural equation modeling (SEM) to test a fully- and partially-mediated Extended Rational Model of Work-Life Conflict and examined the impact of job involvement, workaholism, work intensity, organisational expectations and support, and having children on work hours, worklife conflict and psychological strain in male and female academics. In total, 410 academics from three Irish universities completed an electronic questionnaire survey. Results indicated both commonalities and differences in the factors that influence work hours, work-life conflict and levels of psychological strain in men and women. Lower organisation expectations predicted longer working hours in both men and women; additional unique predictors of longer working hours in men were higher work intensity and having children; conversely, higher work enjoyment predicted longer working hours in women, but not men. Higher work intensity predicted higher work-life conflict in men and women. In the final best fitting model, longer work hours predicted higher levels of work-life conflict in women only. Findings are discussed in light of research and theory on work-life balance and the challenge of facilitating productivity and well-being in academia.
Original languageEnglish (Ireland)
JournalThe Irish Journal of Psychology
Volume35
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2015

Authors (Note for portal: view the doc link for the full list of authors)

  • Authors
  • Hogan, V. and Hogan, M.J. and Hodgins, M. and Kinman, G. and Bunting, B.P.
  • Hogan, V., Hogan, M. J., Hodgins, M., Kinman, G., & Bunting, B. P.

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'An examination of gender differences in the impact of individual and organisational factors on work hours, work-life conflict and psychological strain in academics'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this