Test of Work-to-Family and Family-to-Work Models of Conflict and Satisfaction: An Analysis of Dual Career Couples in Bangladesh

Abstract

Greater access of women to education and the job market has led to the increased participation of women in professional employment throughout the world. Bangladesh is no exception from this trend of change which is creating the phenomenon of dual-career couples (two working people in a committed relationship). This trend has radically changed traditional family structures and gender roles in society. These types of couples need to integrate both their work and family life together. This is creating challenges for both dual-career couples and their employers. Past research has posited that the imbalance between work and family lives, or the conflict between work and family lives of the dual-career couples can significantly reduce employee productivity, performance, job satisfaction, family satisfaction, and life satisfaction. This, in turn, hinders the performance of a business by affecting its organizational innovation, efficiency, and effectiveness.

The current study tested predictions regarding the nature of relationships among these variables on 180 dual career couples (N=360) in Bangladesh. Literature reviews suggested two forms of conflict; work-to-family conflict and family-to-work conflict among these dual career couples. Models were developed by addressing these two types of conflict and testing the relationship with various types of satisfaction. A structured questionnaire was used as the primary source for data collection. Results reveal that work-to-family conflict negatively predicts job satisfaction and life satisfaction. No evidence is found regarding the relationship of family-to-work conflict with job and family satisfaction.