Work and Family Satisfaction and Conflict: A Meta-Analysis of Cross-Domain Relations

Michael Ford 

Beth Heinen

Krista Langkamer

Keywords: Work-Family Conflict, Job Satisfaction, Family Satisfaction, Meta-Analysis, Work-Life Balance

The Study: This meta-analysis examined cross-domain relationships between work and family satisfaction and conflict. Drawing from 64 independent samples and over 35,000 participants, the study explored how conflict and satisfaction in one domain affect outcomes in the other.

Main Findings: Work-to-family conflict was negatively related to family satisfaction (r = -0.36), and family-to-work conflict was negatively related to job satisfaction (r = -0.32). Conversely, job satisfaction positively correlated with family satisfaction (r = 0.31), and vice versa (r = 0.32). These results support both the cross-domain conflict and spillover models. Methodological and sample characteristics moderated the strength of the effects.

Practical Implications: Organizations should adopt policies that reduce work-family conflict and enhance job satisfaction to also improve employees’ family lives. Understanding the bidirectional influences between work and family is key to promoting overall well-being.

Reference: Ford, M. T., Heinen, B. A., & Langkamer, K. L. (2007). Work and Family Satisfaction and Conflict: A Meta-Analysis of Cross-Domain Relations. Journal of Applied Psychology, 92(1), 57–80. https://doi.org/10.1037/0021-9010.92.1.57

Ford et al, 2007.pdf

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