PHWP: Abstract Detail: Exploring occupational differences in work-family interaction: Who is at risk?

This study focuses on occupational differences in the work-family interaction using eight occupational groups from Norway (i.e., lawyers, physicians, nurses, teachers, church ministers, bus drivers, advertising employees, and information technology workers). Results indicated that occupations with more permeable boundaries (e.g., physician) tended to be associated with higher levels of work-family conflict but also higher levels of work-family facilitation. Occupations with clearer boundaries (e.g., bus driver) tended to exhibit less conflict but also less facilitation. These results were consistent across the sex of respondent. Hence, the authors argue that the relationship between work and family may be more permeable in some occupations than others, which can have increased negative consequences (e.g., conflict) but also increased benefits (e.g., facilitation).

Innstrand, S. T., Langballe, E. M., & Falkum, E. (2010). Exploring occupational differences in work-family interaction: Who is at risk? International Journal of Stress Management, 17, 38-55.