The Factor Structure of the Work—Family Conflict Multidimensional Scale: Exploring the Expectations of College Students

Abstract

Work-family conflict (WFC) has been examined from a unidimensional approach, yet recent research has revealed three types (i.e., time, strain, and behavior) and two directions of work— family conflict. Previous researchers suggested that college students are unable to discern between the multiple-facets of WFC, thus measured anticipated WFC addressing only the bidirectional component. This approach assumes that college students have not fully considered each facet of work—family balance. The current study is the first to examine the use of measuring anticipated work—family conflict with college students from a multidimensional perspective. We investigated anticipated levels of three types and two directions of WFC of 295 college students by examining the factor structure of a modified version of the Multidimensional Work—Family Conflict Scale. Participants discerned between the three types of WFC yet were unable to differentiate between the directions of behavior and strain-based conflict. Implications for research and career counseling are also discussed.

Keywords

work—family conflict multiple roles dual-career life roles and role strain

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