Employees' work-family conflict as a moderator between their use of new information and communications technologies and subjective well-being

Description

To date, little is known about the consequences of the use of new information and communications technologies (ICT) relating to the workplace and studies show contradictory results. On the one hand, positive correlations between the use of new technologies and subjective well-being are reported; on the other hand, negative correlations with well-being demonstrate the risks of ICT. The present study focuses on the moderating role of work-family conflict in this relationship. A work-family conflict can arise if the role pressures from work and family domains are incompatible so that participation in one role is made more difficult by participation in another role. Design/Methodology: On the basis of a cross-sectional design and an online survey with 321 employees, hierarchical linear regression analyses were conducted. Results: The use of ICT is negatively and significantly correlated with employees’ subjective well-being. Work-family conflict plays a moderating role: If employees perceive low work-family conflict, the relationship between use of ICT and well-being is positive, while it is negative in the case of high work-family conflict. Limitations: Conclusions regarding causality cannot be drawn because of the cross-sectional design. Research/Practical Implications: Our study points out that it is necessary to examine the effects of ICT under different conditions. Originality/Value: The study contributes to knowledge on the effects of ICT on employees’ well-being. It gives detailed insights by integrating concepts like work-life blending and work-family conflict.

Period	19 May 2017
Event title	EAWOP 2017
Event type	Conference
Location	IrelandShow on map