Nature of Work-Family Conflict
A work-family conflict occurs when the responsibilities of the workplace begin to interfere with family life. The types of work-family conflict vary, but the root of the problem stems from the workplace not accommodating for changes in society, according to the Center for American Progress.
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History
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The Center for American Progress notes many work-family conflicts occur because the structure of the workplace hasn't evolved past the 1960s. During the 1960s men tended to work while women raised kids. However, over time these expected gender roles changed, dramatically increasing the number of two-income families and creating new challenges for family life.
Types
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Types of work-family conflicts include conflicting work schedules, unsupportive managers, travel requirements, and work overload. For example, professional athletes may find themselves encountering work-family conflicts due to demanding travel schedules.
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Considerations
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Another cause of work-family conflicts can be demonstrating work behavior at home. For instance, a parent with a management position might find herself using some of her management techniques when parenting. According to Jeffrey H. Greenhaus of Drexel University, this transfer of behavior from work to home often occurs subconsciously.
Solution
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Joan Williams, a law professor at Washington College of Law, advised in a speech covered by the University of Michigan's faculty and staff news service that the solution to work-family conflicts involves restructuring the workplace. Areas noted as needing restructuring includes schedules and wages.
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