Work Life Balance and Well Being of Female Academicians in Higher Educational Institutes: A Mixed Method Research

By : Harshita Maheshwari, Aayushi Soral

Page No: 483-491

Abstract
The primary objective of this study is to compare work-life balance among female academicians in government and private higher educational institutes, examine the association between work-life balance and well-being, and qualitatively explore female academicians’ perspectives on institutional practices related to work-life balance. Data was collected through the administration of the Work-Life Balance Scale and the World Health Organization (WHO) Well-being Scale to a sample of 115 female academicians, including 55 from government institutes and 60 from private institutes in Jaipur and neighboring cities. Statistical analyses, including correlation and independent sample t-tests, were conducted. Additionally, qualitative insights were gathered through interviews with five female academicians to understand their perspectives on institutional practices. A significant positive relationship was found between worklife balance and well-being (r = 0.673, p < .01). An independent sample-test revealed significant differences in work-life balance scores between private-sector (M = 233.25, SD = 53.74) and government-sector (M = 266.49, SD = 58.40) female employees (t(113) = 3.18, p = 0.001911). Qualitative findings highlighted that flexible working hours, clear institutional policies, on-campus childcare facilities, supportive peer networks, and structured professional development were key factors influencing work-life balance. Government sector employees reported better work-life balance compared to their private-sector counterparts, with institutional practices significantly impacting their experiences. The study concluded that there is a positive relationship between worklife balance and well-being among female academicians in both sectors. However, significant differences exist in the perception of work-life balance between private and government female academicians, with those in government institutes reporting better work-life balance. The qualitative insights provide valuable context to these findings by revealing how institutional practices influence work-life balance. Future research should qualitatively draw insights about perspectives on institutional practices and how they foster work-life balance. This will help to understand the specific factors influencing work-life balance within each sector and to develop tailored interventions to enhance work-life balance and well-being among female employees.

Authors :
Harshita Maheshwari : MSc. Psychology, Kanoria PG Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. 
Aayushi Soral : Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, Kanoria PG Mahila Mahavidyalaya Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.
 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.32381/JPR.2024.19.02.28