Sex, Gender Dynamics, Differential Exposure, and Work–Family Conflict

Abstract

This study tested a differential exposure explanation of the association between sex categories and work–family conflict. It addresses the question of why men and women may experience similar or dissimilar levels of work–family conflict and tests whether differences are due to their different gendered demands and resources. Drawing from a sample of 1,751 employed adults from 63 workplaces, the results suggest that women spend less time in paid employment than do men; a gendered response that is associated with lower work-to-family conflict, but higher family-to-work conflict. Women were also found to be less involved in irregular work schedules, which is associated with lower work-to-family conflict. The differential exposure explanation was also supported by indirect effects involving commute time, family income, and social support outside work.