Unbraiding the impact of parenting Gen Alpha on work productivity: a two-path moderated mediation model of family strain and support mechanism

Purpose This study is grounded within an investigation on understanding the impact of Millennial's parenting Generation Alpha (MPGA) on their work productivity (WP), considering the mediating impact of parental burnout (PB) and work-family conflict (WFC) and the moderating impact of the technology adoption model. Further, the moderated mediator roles of societal expectation (SE) and perceived organizational support (POS) are assessed in the proposed framework. Design/methodology/approach The proposed conceptual framework is tested through a mediation, moderation and moderated mediation analysis (SmartPLS 4.1) of data collected from 434 Indian dual-income Millennial parents within the time frame of March to June 2025. Findings The research findings indicate that in the presence of PB as a mediator supported by SE as a moderated mediator, a stronger relationship is established between MPGA and WP (β = −0.076) in comparison to the mediating effect of WFC on MPGA and WP (β = −0.044). Practical implications The empirical insights of the study can substantiate key contributions for human resource professionals, organizational leaders and policymakers, suggesting to design targeted interventions such as flexible work arrangements, parenting-supportive technologies and inclusive workplace cultures that can effectively balance active parenting responsibilities with professional demands. Originality/value The novelty of the study lies in laying the foundation for analysing the impact of MPGA on WP, addressing the compounded impact of PB and WFC. While prior research has explored work-life balance and generational traits separately, this study uniquely investigates their intersection, highlighting how raising digital-native Gen Alpha children influences Millennials' professional performance.