The Role of Work-Life Balance of Faculty Members in Mitigating Employee Burnout with Special Reference to Arts and Science Colleges in Coimbatore District

This study investigates the role of work-life balance (WLB) in mitigating employee burnout among faculty members of arts and science colleges in Coimbatore District. Burnout—marked by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment—has become increasingly prevalent in the academic sector, negatively affecting faculty well-being and institutional productivity. Through a mixed-methods approach involving both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, data were collected from 150 faculty members across multiple colleges to analyze the effectiveness of existing WLB practices. Findings reveal that inadequate work-life balance is strongly correlated with higher levels of burnout. Contributing factors include excessive workload, rigid academic schedules, and limited institutional support. On the other hand, flexible work policies, a supportive management culture, and initiatives that prioritize faculty well-being significantly reduce burnout and enhance job satisfaction. The study underscores the importance of developing institutional frameworks that support a balanced integration of professional and personal responsibilities. This research provides valuable insights for educational institutions aiming to enhance faculty retention and performance through improved WLB strategies. It concludes with practical recommendations for policy interventions and further studies to promote sustainable academic work environments.