Work Interference with Family (W→F) and Family Interference with Work (F→W): Antecedents and Mediators

The present study was designed to assess the antecedents of two forms of work-family conflict (WFC). The separation of two types of WFC is represented by work interference with family (W→F) and family interference with work (F→W). Several variables were hypothesized to be directly and indirectly related to the two forms of work-family conflict. Because of the individualistic nature of WFC. the participants for the present study were all female. LISREL VIII was used to test the proposed model and to develop an alternative model. Job stress was found to be directly and indirectly related to W→F. Family stress was directly related to F→W. The personality dimension of hardiness was found to decrease the amount of perceived stress from home and work, thereby indirectly diminishing work-family conflict. Family emotional support was negatively linked to family stress and positively linked the amount of family involvement. By reducing stress, emotional support indirectly decreases work-family conflict. Results and interpretations of the proposed and alternative models are provided.