Well-being : the foundations of hedonic psychology

We define work-family enrichment as the extent to which experiences in one role improve the quality of life in the other role. In this article we propose a theoretical model of work-family enrichment and offer a series of research propositions that reflect two paths to enrichment: an instrumental path and an affective path. We then examine the implications of the model for future research on the work-family enrichment process.

When Work And Family Are Allies: A Theory Of Work-Family Enrichment

Four hundred thirteen postal employees were surveyed to investigate reciprocation's role in the relationships of perceived organizational support (POS) with employees' affective organizational commitment and job performance. The authors found that (a) POS was positively related to employees' felt obligation to care about the organization's welfare and to help the organization reach its objectives; (b) felt obligation mediated the associations of POS with affective commitment, organizational spontaneity, and in-role performance; and (c) the relationship between POS and felt obligation increased with employees' acceptance of the reciprocity norm as applied to work organizations. Positive mood also mediated the relationships of POS with affective commitment and organizational spontaneity. The pattern of findings is consistent with organizational support theory's assumption that POS strengthens affective commitment and performance by a reciprocation process.

Reciprocation of perceived organizational support.

Work-family research emphasizes the importance of mechanisms that link work and family. However, these mechanisms typically are described in metaphoric terms poorly suited to rigorous research. In this article we translate work-family linking mechanisms into causal relationships between work and family constructs. For each relationship we explain its sign and causal structure and how it is influenced by personal intent. We show how these respecified linking mechanisms constitute theoretical building blocks for developing comprehensive models of the work-family interface.

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Mechanisms Linking Work and Family: Clarifying the Relationship Between Work and Family Constructs

A comprehensive review of the outcomes associated with work-to-family conflict was conducted and effect sizes were estimated. Atypology was presented that grouped outcomes into 3 categories: work related, nonwork related, and stress related. Issues concerning the measurement of work-family conflict were also discussed. The results demonstrate the widespread and serious consequences associated with work-to-family conflict. On the basis of the results of the review, an agenda for future research was provided.

Consequences associated with work-to-family conflict: a review and agenda for future research.

Developing and Testing an Integrative Model of the Work–Family Interface

A conceptual model of work-school conflict was developed and tested. This study extends prior adolescent employment research by investigating the process by which job characteristics are associated with school outcomes. Data were obtained from a sample of 319 adolescents (16 to 19 years old) who were full-time students and part-time workers. The model was tested using structural equation modeling techniques. Results supported the hypothesized path model. Job characteristics (workload, number of work hours, and job dissatisfaction) were positively related to work-school conflict. Work-school conflict was negatively related to school readiness. School readiness was positively related to school performance, which was negatively associated with school dissatisfaction. In addition, results support a feedback relation, such that school dissatisfaction is negatively related to school readiness.

Job characteristics, work–school conflict, and school outcomes among adolescents: Testing a structural model.

Research and public policy suggest that organizations have a responsibility to create supportive environments for people with disabilities. These individuals continue to face barriers and often find themselves underemployed relative to their skills. Previous research focuses on barriers to employment. This paper explores the career strategies and work engagement of people with disabilities with careers that reflect their educational accomplishments. Qualitative data analysis revealed that study participants proactively shaped their environments through job crafting independent of human resource management or organizational policies. By focusing on examples of career success, this research provides new perspectives on the integration of this population into the work environment.

Karen S. Markel

Papers

Developing and Testing an Integrative Model of the Work–Family Interface

Job characteristics, work–school conflict, and school outcomes among adolescents: Testing a structural model.

Professionals with Disabilities: Crafting Career Success and Engagement