Linkages Between the Work-family Interface and Work, Family, and Individual Outcomes

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Abstract
This article describes the work-family interface and proposes a conceptual model that links the work-family interface to work, family, and individual outcomes through several mediating mechanisms. First, the work-family interface is related to a cognitive assessment of work-family conflict, role balance, or role enhancement. This relationship may be moderated by social categories and coping resources. The assessment of conflict, balance, or enhancement can result in either work-family role strain or work-family role ease. Then, depending on the extent of strain or ease, individuals and families pursue various work-family adaptive strategies designed to improve or facilitate adjustment to various aspects of the work-family interface. The success of these strategies is indicated by the extent of perceived work-family fit. Work-family fit is related directly to work, family, and individual outcomes. Last, work-family adaptive strategies are proposed to have feedback effects on the work-family interface. The article closes with suggestions for further work.