How do work-family balance practices affect work-family conflict？ The differential roles of work stress

• Published in: Frontiers of business research in China 2017, Vol.11 (2), p.242-268, Article 8
• Main Authors: Chang, Xiaoxi, Zhou, Yu, Wang, Chenxi, Heredero, Carmen de Pablos
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Accounting/Auditing; Business and Management; Business Finance; Challenge stress; Hindrance stress; Human Resource Management; Marketing; Occupational stress; Organization; Studies; Work life balance; Work-family balance practices; Work-family conflict
• ISSN: 1673-7326; 1673-7431
• DOI: 10.1186/s11782-017-0008-4

This paper investigates the relationship between employees＇ perception of work-family balance practices and work-family conflicts. It examines the role of challenge stress and hindrance stress as moderators. Based on survey data collected from 841 civil servants in Beijing, we found that perceived work-family balance practices may reduce work-family conflict, while challenge and hindrance work stresses were positively related to work-family conflict. In addition, challenge and hindrance stresses differentially moderated the relationship between perceived work-family practices and work-family conflict. When challenge stress is high then workffamily balance practices will reduce work-family conflict. However, under high hindrance stress, work-family balance practices will serve to reduce work-family conflict less. More detailed analysis of the configurational dimensions of work-family balance practices （work flexibility, and employee and family wellness care） are also tested. This study provides additional insight into the management of work-family interfaces and offers ideas for future research.