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Article
Publication date: 17 September 2024

Prantika Ray and Sunil Kumar Maheshwari

International assignments are not just opportunities for career advancement but also for personal growth and exploration. This paper, by capturing the changing expectations and…

Abstract

Purpose

International assignments are not just opportunities for career advancement but also for personal growth and exploration. This paper, by capturing the changing expectations and success parameters across the assignments, is a timely and relevant resource for individuals navigating the complexities of international careers. In addition, the paper aims to help organizations build policies for enabling successful assignments for international assignees and managers.

Design/methodology/approach

Our research took a unique two-pronged approach to understanding the success parameters of international assignments. We first interviewed 16 managers to understand the success parameters they set for expatriates. Then, we interviewed 19 international assignees to explore their choices and how they defined success in their international experiences.

Findings

Our comprehensive research, based on 35 interviews with international assignees and their supervisors, reveals that an assignment's success evolves with different stages of the assignment, over the assignments that the assignees choose, and varies according to the intent of the mobility.

Originality/value

This paper makes a significant contribution to the field of cross-cultural management and international assignments. By discussing the evolving definition of success across various international assignments, it not only provides valuable insights for expatriates in their international careers but also to managers to build aligned policies and practices.

Details

Journal of Global Mobility: The Home of Expatriate Management Research, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2049-8799

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 6 August 2024

Rajpreet Kaur

This present study sheds light on how these issues affect police officers’ personal and professional lives. This research looks at how family support (FS) and workplace pressures…

Abstract

Purpose

This present study sheds light on how these issues affect police officers’ personal and professional lives. This research looks at how family support (FS) and workplace pressures affect police effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis of the measurement and structural model was conducted using AMOS version 26. To ensure the accuracy of the results, a two-stage analysis methodology (Anderson and Gerbing, 1988) was used. The first stage involved testing the measurement model using various validity indicators such as confirmatory factor analysis, comparative fit index, goodness of fit index and Tucker–Lewis index to evaluate the incremental compatibility of the model. Root-mean-square approximation error and CMIN/DF were also used to further assess the model’s validity. In the second stage of the analysis, the structural model was estimated using structural equation modeling technique (Hair et al., 1998). The data obtained from the measurement model was then used to determine the fit indices. Because the values were consistent with the criterion values, the model was deemed to be a good fit.

Findings

The study conducted sheds light on the crucial role that work stressors (WS) and FS play in determining job satisfaction (JS) among nongazetted officers (NGOs) and other ranks (ORs) police officials in the state of Punjab, India. The findings suggest that there exists a complex interdependence between WS and FS, and their correlation with regards to work, family and children’s evaluations. The first hypothesis (H1, Table 4) was found to be true (0.440, p = 0.001), indicating that more than 44 % of the job performance of police officials in Punjab is affected by stressors related to work. The study also identified eight WS that have a significant impact on the performance of police officials on the job. On the other hand, FS was found to have no influence on the job performance of police officials in Punjab, and hence, the second hypothesis was rejected. Further analysis showed that FS was more prevalent among NGOs as compared to ORs police personnel, but it did not directly influence their job performance. The benefits of FS may be moderated by the nature of the job; hence, FS may be more critical in stressful jobs such as police work than in less stressful jobs. The study emphasizes the importance of balancing work and family demands and highlights the need for family-friendly policies to achieve this balance. Future research should focus on the types of policies that should be offered to lessen stress and conflict and examine the benefits of merely offering programs versus requiring or encouraging their usage. The findings of this study could be useful for policymakers and organizations in designing policies that promote employee well-being and JS while balancing work and family demands.

Research limitations/implications

As with any research endeavor, it is essential to interpret the findings of this study while considering its limitations. First, the study relied on a convenience sample drawn solely from one nation, namely, India, which may restrict the generalizability of the results to other countries or cultural contexts. Furthermore, it is important to note that this study exclusively explored the causal relationship between monetary compensation, intrinsic motivation and employee performance, without delving into the nuances of various forms or qualities of FS (e.g. emotional support, instrumental support, perceived vs actual support) and their impact on job performance among police officers. Additionally, the research did not investigate whether the influence of FS on job performance varies based on the specific WS encountered by police officers. These limitations highlight potential avenues for future research to explore in greater depth.

Practical implications

To enhance the well-being and JS of police officers and their families, a comprehensive set of tailored interventions and support programs can be implemented. Recognizing the unique stressors faced by officers and introducing critical incident debriefing sessions and counseling services to provide a confidential space for emotional processing. Offering flexible scheduling, exploring remote work options and developing workshops and resource programs to address the needs of officers’ families, including stress management and communication skills. Strengthening parental leave policies, incorporating extended paid leave and clear communication, to alleviate stress during significant family events. Establishing peer support networks within police departments to provide officers with a valuable avenue for sharing experiences and coping strategies. Collectively, these interventions aim to create a supportive and family-friendly environment within the police force, ultimately fostering improved work-family balance and enhanced well-being for police personnel. To enhance the well-being and JS of police officers and their families, a comprehensive set of tailored interventions and support programs can be implemented. Recognizing the unique stressors faced by officers, critical incident debriefing sessions and counseling services should be introduced to provide a confidential space for emotional processing. Given the demanding nature of police work, exploring flexible schedules and remote work options can assist officers in achieving a better work-life balance, particularly when dealing with family-related challenges. Workshops and resource programs specifically addressing the needs of officers’ families, including stress management and communication skills, can be developed to strengthen family connections. Strengthening parental leave policies, incorporating extended paid leave and clear communication, can alleviate stress during significant family events. Establishing peer support networks within police departments provides officers with a valuable avenue for sharing experiences and coping strategies. Regular mental health check-ins and screenings, as well as financial education workshops, acknowledge and address the unique challenges faced by officers and their families. Community engagement and recognition initiatives, along with specialized training on work-family balance, can foster positive morale. Finally, the establishment of a crisis intervention and FS hotline serves as a vital lifeline during critical situations, ensuring immediate assistance and resources for officers and their families in times of need. Collectively, these interventions aim to create a supportive and family-friendly environment within the police force.

Social implications

The primary objective of this study is to assess the impact of occupational demands and familial support on the overall happiness levels of police officers stationed in Punjab, India. The research underscores the crucial importance of implementing family-friendly policies aimed at achieving a harmonious equilibrium between professional responsibilities and family life commitments. The findings unveil a multifaceted interconnection between occupational stress, familial support systems and individual assessments concerning career fulfillment, domestic life and parental responsibilities. Moreover, the study sheds light on various family-friendly initiatives, such as empowerment strategies and recognition programs, that have the potential to augment JS among police personnel. Furthermore, it suggests that future investigations delve deeper into the efficacy of implementing voluntary programs rather than mandating or promoting their usage in mitigating stress and resolving familial conflicts. The study establishes a clear correlation between JS, overall well-being and the interplay between occupational demands and familial encouragement. Policymakers and corporate entities are urged to take cognizance of these factors while formulating strategies aimed at enhancing the health and contentment levels of employees in the workplace. Additionally, the study underscores the significance of cultural factors, emphasizing the need to consider them in future research endeavors and policy formulations. Cultural factors such as societal norms, values and expectations can influence the way that police personnel perceive and use FS, as well as the impact that FS has on their job performance. By conducting cross-cultural studies, researchers can gain insights into how the relationship between FS and job performance may vary across different cultural contexts. This can help to identify universal factors as well as culturally specific influences on the interplay between FS and job performance among police personnel. Furthermore, investigating the impact of FS on job performance in diverse cultural contexts can contribute to the development of culturally sensitive support programs and policies for police officers. Understanding how cultural factors shape the experiences of police personnel and their families can inform the design of interventions that are tailored to the specific needs and challenges present in different cultural settings. In summary, expanding the research scope to include diverse cultural contexts can enhance the generalizability of the findings and contribute to the development of culturally sensitive support programs and policies for police officers.

Originality/value

The content of this paper is entirely original and has not been derived from any other published or unpublished documents. It has been created solely for the purpose of providing new and unique information for the readers.

Details

Vilakshan - XIMB Journal of Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0973-1954

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 April 2024

Lisa H. Rosen, Shannon R. Scott, Darian Poe, Roshni Shukla, Michelle Honargohar and Shazia Ahmed

Working mothers experienced dramatic changes to their daily routines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many began to work from home as they simultaneously tried to balance work…

Abstract

Purpose

Working mothers experienced dramatic changes to their daily routines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many began to work from home as they simultaneously tried to balance work demands with tending to their children. The purpose of the current study was to examine working mothers’ experiences during the pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to examine working mothers’ experiences of telework during the pandemic, we conducted a focus group study. 45 working mothers participated, and they answered questions about their experiences.

Findings

Three themes emerged from the focus groups: (1) motivation shifts amongst working mothers; (2) difficulty balancing roles as mother and employee; and (3) workplace expectations and support. Many mothers reported that their overall motivation as employees had decreased and that they experienced difficulty in fully attending to their work and their child(ren)’s needs. As mothers navigated the stress of working during the pandemic, they reported varying levels of workplace support and many credited working with other parents as a primary contributor to feeling supported.

Originality/value

The findings from the current study add to the growing body of literature documenting the dark side of teleworking for mothers who struggled immensely with work–life balance. This study builds on past research by allowing mothers to share their experiences in their own words and offering suggestions for how organizations can support mothers in navigating these ongoing challenges as teleworking continues to remain prevalent. The narratives collected hold important implications for practices and policies to best support the needs of mothers as they continue to work and care for their children within the home.

Details

Personnel Review, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0048-3486

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 June 2024

Abhinaya Sridhar and Harsha Kuriakose

This study aims to gain an understanding of how caring for an ageing population affects caregivers’ psychological well-being, quality of life and ability to tolerate distress…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to gain an understanding of how caring for an ageing population affects caregivers’ psychological well-being, quality of life and ability to tolerate distress. This study provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by family caregivers and underscores the critical need for comprehensive support systems.

Design/methodology/approach

A correlational method and cross-sectional research design was used for the study. For this, a sample of 200 caregivers in the age range of 25–60 years who were taking care of the geriatric population above the age of 70 years for a minimum of one year were chosen. Four questionnaires − Burden Scale for Family Caregivers, Psychological Well-Being Scale, World Health Organization’s Quality of Life Scale-BRIEF version and Distress Tolerance Scale were chosen. Correlation and multivariate regression were calculated using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) 21 and Jamovi 3.4.1.

Findings

This study found that there is a negative correlation of caregiver burden with psychological well-being, quality of life and distress tolerance. The sub-domains of self-acceptance, psychological health and tolerance levels were most impacted for the caregivers. Through multivariate regression, it was found that the caregiver burden significantly predicted psychological well-being and quality of life.

Research limitations/implications

This study focuses on the English-speaking caregivers which may overlook the diverse linguistic and cultural variations within the broader caregiver community in India and the data collection exclusively targeted family caregivers providing support to geriatric population without chronic illnesses. This restriction could potentially limit the generalizability of the findings to the broader caregiving context.

Practical implications

The implications of this research are that for caregivers, this study underscores the importance of tailored support programmes that address the negative impact of caregiver burden on psychological well-being and quality of life. Health-care professionals can use the findings to incorporate mental health assessments and interventions within caregiving contexts, recognizing the interconnected nature of these variables. Policymakers can use the findings to inform policies related to caregiver support and health-care resource allocation.

Originality/value

In India, the social norm is that children are expected to take care of their parents when they become old. Taking care of elderly parents can be challenging, even emotionally. As a result, this study will focus on how caregivers’ psychological well-being, quality of life and ability to tolerate distress are affected. Consequently, promoting the creation of community support groups and workplace mental health programmes which could give caregivers a forum to voice their concerns.

Details

Working with Older People, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1366-3666

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 September 2024

Kumudu Nanayakkara Wasam Mudage, Nipuni Weerasinghe, Mahesh Madusanka, Candauda Arachchige Saliya, Anuja Akalanka Lokeshwara and C. Dilshanie Jayatissa

While extensive research has explored poverty in various dimensions, there remains a notable dearth of studies focusing on success stories of slum dwellers overcoming adversity…

Abstract

Purpose

While extensive research has explored poverty in various dimensions, there remains a notable dearth of studies focusing on success stories of slum dwellers overcoming adversity. This research seeks to address this gap by investigating the strategies employed by individuals to transcend poverty. Moreover, it evaluates the practicality and effectiveness of existing theories in real-world contexts through careful interpretation.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from two distinct cases through comprehensive, in-depth interviews. These narratives were subjected to scrutiny employing the Description Analysis Interpretation method. Subsequent interpretation and theoretical exploration were guided by Bourdieu’s class theory. The overarching goal was to shed light on the remarkable journeys of specific slum residents who surpassed the constraints of poverty. This endeavor not only highlighted the practical efficacy of these theories but also underscored their relevance in illuminating real-world scenarios through interpretation.

Findings

The findings underscore the capacity of slum dwellers to rise above poverty, thereby emphasizing the practical utility of specific theories aimed at poverty alleviation in elucidating their experiences. Notably, social capital, a cornerstone of Bourdieu’s class theory, emerges as equally pivotal as economic capital in shaping individuals' trajectories.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s scope is confined to narratives within the Colombo slums, offering a platform for future researchers to extend their investigations beyond this context. By employing alternative methodologies and exploring diverse geographical regions, scholars can broaden their understanding of poverty alleviation strategies and their applicability across varied socioeconomic landscapes. This calls for wider research for comprehensive exploration and comprehension of poverty dynamics beyond singular locales.

Practical implications

The study provides invaluable insights for policymakers, governmental bodies and nongovernmental organizations, urging them to reconsider and reformulate policies, educational strategies and community development programs tailored to the needs of slum dwellers and their children. These insights offer a pathway toward more effective interventions aimed at fostering sustainable upliftment within these marginalized communities.

Originality/value

This research fills a critical gap in poverty literature by exploring success stories of slum dwellers overcoming adversity, an area often overlooked. It uniquely investigates the strategies these individuals employ to transcend poverty, offering fresh insights into the practical application of poverty alleviation theories. Utilizing Bourdieu’s class theory, the study highlights the importance of both social and economic capital in these success narratives. By focusing on real-life experiences, it underscores the relevance and utility of these theories in real-world contexts, enriching the theoretical discourse and providing valuable perspectives for policymakers and practitioners.

Details

International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-333X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 August 2024

Christopher B. Stone, Andrea R. Neely, William Phillips and Ryan P. Terry

The aim of this work is to enhance workplace diversity and inclusion by exploring and addressing unique barriers faced by veterans during their transition from military service to…

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this work is to enhance workplace diversity and inclusion by exploring and addressing unique barriers faced by veterans during their transition from military service to civilian occupations.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on existing expatriate theory, we introduce the Veteran Employment Transition (VET) model. Drawing parallels between veterans and expatriates, the model illustrates key antecedents crucial for a successful transitional adjustment.

Findings

The proposed VET model outlines essential factors contributing to successful veteran transitions. These factors include individual factors such as language skills, job and organization factors such as role clarity and nonwork factors.

Research limitations/implications

The VET model establishes a foundation for future research on veteran transition and answers the call for theory development in the field.

Practical implications

The insights derived from the VET model offer practical recommendations for designing interventions and transition support programs tailored to the unique needs of returning veterans.

Originality/value

The contribution of this paper lies in the development of the VET model, offering a novel perspective for understanding and addressing the distinctive challenges faced by returning United States (US) military veterans.

Details

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: An International Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-7149

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 August 2024

Paul D. Reynolds

This paper explores the scope and impact of gender in the process of starting new businesses, with a particular focus on understanding how participation, motivations and outcomes…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper explores the scope and impact of gender in the process of starting new businesses, with a particular focus on understanding how participation, motivations and outcomes differ between men and women entrepreneurs.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper utilizes data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) and the Panel Studies of Entrepreneurial Dynamics (PSED). The GEM data provide a global overview, drawing from representative national samples across over 100 countries to assess the extent of business creation activity and gender participation globally. The longitudinal PSED data set provides information on the business creation process and outcomes.

Findings

Over the last 20 years, the presence of women in the early stages of starting a business in the United States of America has seen a notable increase, doubling their representation among entrepreneurs and nearing parity with men, who also saw growth but at a slower rate. This shift marks a significant move towards greater gender balance in the entrepreneurial landscape.

Originality/value

The originality of this paper lies in its comprehensive analysis of the evolving landscape of gender dynamics within entrepreneurship over two decades, particularly highlighting the significant increase in women's participation in business creation.

Details

International Journal of Gender and Entrepreneurship, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1756-6266

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 July 2024

Sharifah Alharoon and Fairouz M. Aldhmour

This study aims to examine the impact of digital health technology adoption on female physicians’ work–life balance (WLB) in Bahrain. This study also examines the impact of two…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of digital health technology adoption on female physicians’ work–life balance (WLB) in Bahrain. This study also examines the impact of two moderating variables: career stage, based on the kaleidoscope career model (KCM) and the presence of domestic workers, based on Becker’s theory of the allocation of time.

Design/methodology/approach

An electronic quantitative survey was administered to female physicians working in Bahrain. The survey gathered data on various aspects of digital health technology, WLB and demographic characteristics such as age and the presence of domestic workers. From a target population of approximately 1,000 female physicians in Bahrain, 102 participated in the survey.

Findings

The authors found that the effect of digital health technologies on WLB is positive in general and specifically for the early-career stage; however, it harms WLB in the middle and late-career stages. This is consistent with KCM predictions. In addition, there is no moderating effect of having domestic helpers.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the theoretical understanding of the effect of technology on WLB by expanding the traditional model (KCM) to include an economic model of how female physicians allocate their time between work and home responsibilities, including the effect that a domestic worker can have on this allocation. Beyond these theoretical contributions, this paper is also the first to study technology and WLB in the health sector in Bahrain following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Details

International Journal of Organizational Analysis, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1934-8835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 July 2024

Mujtaba M. Momin and Krishna Priya Rolla

The purpose of the paper is to examine study probes into the association between work–family balance (WFB) and workplace wellbeing (WWB), as there has been a dearth of studies in…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to examine study probes into the association between work–family balance (WFB) and workplace wellbeing (WWB), as there has been a dearth of studies in this domain. Furthermore, the study deciphers the mediation and moderation effect of work engagement (WE) and turnover intent, respectively, on this primal relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study undertakes a quantitative analysis of full-time regular employees (n = 334) in the USA, with a minimum experience of two years in current employment. The data was collected in two phases to minimize common method bias. The collected data was analysed via structural equation modelling.

Findings

Results indicate a positive association between WFB and workplace well-being. The mediation effect of WE on the primal association between WFB and workplace wellbeing is also substantiated. Though turnover intent failed to moderate this association between WFB and WWB; but mitigated the linkage between WE and workplace wellbeing.

Practical implications

The study demonstrates that the direct relationship between WFB and WWB is more pronounced than its indirect association. This insight could help organizations to design policies that include WFB; which can further accelerate WWB and work immersion attitudes amongst employees. Finally, this paper illustrates that employee attrition can be controlled by championing a climate of WE and WWB.

Originality/value

The present investigation offers an insight into the direct association between the WFB and workplace well-being of employees; and the pivotal role of WE in the whole nexus, an investigation which has been largely ignored, in the past. Furthermore, it refutes the effect of negative constructs like turnover intention, in the presence of positive associates like WE and WFB; which is an important lead for both practitioners and theorists.

Details

Industrial and Commercial Training, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0019-7858

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 31 July 2024

Jeanne Poulose and Vinod Sharma

This study investigates the influence of work-to-family and family-to-work conflict on turnover intention (career break), mediated through job and life satisfaction among Indian…

Abstract

Purpose

This study investigates the influence of work-to-family and family-to-work conflict on turnover intention (career break), mediated through job and life satisfaction among Indian women in the service sector, using role conflict theory as the base.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 421 usable responses from women who had taken a career break were collected using a 36-item scale from six major metro cities in India through social and digital media platforms. A purposive-cum-snowballing sampling method was adopted. The hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling (SEM) through AMOS.

Findings

Findings suggest that job satisfaction (JS) is a significant predictor of turnover intention, both when work spills into the family domain, and family responsibilities spill into the work domain, thereby confirming the mediating influence of JS. Interestingly, life satisfaction (LS) only seems to mediate between inter-domain conflict and turnover intention partially.

Research limitations/implications

This is a descriptive study, and is thereby limited in terms of its generalizability, specifically as it included respondents only from six major metro cities in India.

Practical implications

The extended work-family conflict model could help managers structure organizational interventions that support women to deal with the challenges of managing the demands of both work and family domains, thereby reducing the negative influence on JS. Such initiatives could help reduce career breaks among women.

Originality/value

We explored the cause of career breaks among Indian urban women employed in the service sector, using the extended model of inter-role conflict and their attitudes towards both life and job.

Details

Evidence-based HRM: a Global Forum for Empirical Scholarship, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2049-3983

Keywords

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