Work-life balance and life satisfaction: Serial mediation by basic psychological needs satisfaction

Several factors influence life satisfaction, including how well the work-life balance process meets an individual's basic psychological needs. In this study, a model examining the mediating effect of basic psychological needs on the relationship between work-life balance and life satisfaction was tested. The sample comprised 360 full-time employees aged 25 to 55. Data were collected using the Work-Life Balance Scale, the Basic Needs Satisfaction in General Scale, and the Satisfaction with Life Scale. Preliminary findings showed a positive and significant correlation between life satisfaction and work-life balance. Furthermore, multiple mediation analyses indicated that basic psychological needs—autonomy, competence, and relatedness—serially mediate the relationship between work-life balance and life satisfaction.