Work-life balance as source of job dissatisfaction and withdrawal attitudes: An exploratory study on the views of male workers

Authors: Hughes, Joanna; Bozionelos, Nikos

Source: Personnel Review, Volume 36, Number 1, 2007 , pp. 145-154(10)

Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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Abstract:

Purpose - The purpose of this article is to explore the views of male workers in a male dominated occupation on issues that pertain to work-life balance. Design/methodology/approach - The study was qualitative in nature. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 bus drivers employed by a single company in order to identify their perceptions on the following: whether issues related to work-life balance were sources of concern and dissatisfaction; how concern over issues related to work-life balance was compared to other sources of concern and dissatisfaction; and whether issues related to work-life balance were linked with withdrawal attitudes and behaviours. Findings - It emerged that work-life imbalance was not only a source of concern, but also that it was the major source of dissatisfaction for participants. Furthermore, participants made a clear connection between problems with work-life balance and withdrawal behaviours, including turnover and non-genuine sick absence. Originality/value - The study has value at both scholarly and practice level. At scholarly level, the research investigated an important contemporary issue within a neglected group: male workers in a low profile male dominated occupation. At practice level, the findings suggest that work life imbalance incurs tangible costs to organisations; hence, organisations need to establish human resource systems to deal with it. Furthermore, pertinent legislation may need to be developed and enacted.

Keywords: Employee attitudes; Job satisfaction; Men

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/00483480710716768

Publication date: 2007-01-02