Publication Date

Fall 2023

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Psychology

Advisor

Howard Tokunaga; Megumi Hosoda; Thomas Anderson

Keywords

childfree;perceived work-life balance policy culture;work-life balance

Abstract

The societal assumption that everyone will or should have children at some point is deeply ingrained in many cultures. This often results in a lack of recognition and understanding of the experiences of childfree individuals, particularly within professional settings. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the moderating effect of childcare responsibility on the relationship between perceived work-life balance policy culture and job outcomes. A sample of 161 participants completed an online survey measuring perceived work-life balance policy culture, job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and turnover intentions. Results showed that employees with high levels of perceived work-life balance policy culture reported higher levels of job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and lower levels of turnover intentions compared to those with lower levels of perceived work- life balance policy culture. In addition, the negative relationship between perceived work-life balance policy culture and turnover intentions was stronger for childfree employees than those with childcare responsibilities. The results suggest that childfree employees are significantly more influenced by organizations’ work-life balance policy culture than their counterparts with children when considering leaving an organization. These findings underscore the importance of tailoring organizational policies to recognize the unique needs and experiences of childfree employees.

Download

Included in

Psychology Commons

Share

COinS