Introducing Theoretical Approaches to Work-Life Balance and Testing a New Typology Among Professionals

Abstract

Clark (2000) defines work-family balance as "satisfaction and good functioning at work and at home, with a minimum of role conflict" (p. 751). In this chapter, we examine how professionals have succeeded in achieving work-life balance in their lives. First, we examine classic and current approaches to multiple roles and then introduce a typology of work-life balance based on the synthesis of the presented theoretical foundation. We propose four types of work-life balance; beneficial, harmful, active, and passive. The employees belonging to each type are expected to differ qualitatively from each other in relation to psychological functioning and role engagement.