Role conflict and work-life-family (WLF) demands: a perspective of Malaysian family business

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to analyze the relationship between work-life-family (WLF) demands and job satisfaction in family businesses.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from 220, who involve in the family business sector in Malaysia. In this study, the major demands in individuals are classified into three categories of WLF. The work component was measured in terms of standard working hours, work pressure and conditions, co-worker relationships and promotional opportunities. The life component was represented by living standards, level of self-motivation fulfillment, achievement of individual targets, self-compassion, self-care and health and community development. The family component represented another segmentation of responsibility and demands for specific role, which relates to family tasks, collective/familiness targets, family involvement and mutual understanding.FindingsThe empirical results indicated that work-related demands determine entrepreneurs’ job satisfaction, then followed by family-related and life-related (personal) demands. As this study was confined to the micro businesses under the family business sector, this provides valuable findings by uncovering the differences among the antecedents because of the reasoning of work culture and business management practices. It is argued that the role conflicts are related to job satisfaction, individual happiness and family contentment.Originality/valueIt expands the typology and fostering sustainable entrepreneurial development. Insights gained could facilitate business strategies and effective human resource policies particularly among the family businesses in Malaysia.