Working mothers in universities: Role of work-to-life enrichment, networking behaviours and career commitment

Background: The workplace needs to be responsive not only to the career needs of employees but also to assist in managing aspects on the home front. Objectives: The study aims to examine the mediating effect of work-to-life enrichment on the relationship between networking behaviour and career commitment among working mothers. Methods: The data for the study were collected using a survey distributed to 297 working mothers accessed through a convenience sampling technique. Data analysis was conducted using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), with path analysis used to assess the hypothesised relationships, and indirect effect was examined to test for mediation. Results: The findings reveal that work-to-life enrichment significantly mediates the relationship between networking behaviour and career commitment among working mothers. The favourable effect of networking behaviour on career commitment is reinforced when working mothers have high degrees of work-to-life enrichment. Conclusion: The results demonstrated the factors that can influence career commitment among working mothers striving for a balance between the work and home nexus. Contribution: The study makes significant recommendations for institutions seeking to assist the professional development and well-being of working mothers, ultimately establishing a more equitable working environment.