The Impact of Work-Family Conflict on Job Satisfaction : A Qatari Perspective

Abstract

The performance of employees in any organization depends on numerous factors, which can be related to job satisfaction, family life, or both. A work-family balance is highly desirable for employees as it helps to reduce friction between their professional and domestic lives. The aim of this chapter is to provide a discussion of the implications of work-family conflict (WFC) for the well-being of Qatari families as seen critically in light of the current provisions of national laws. In 2017, a stratified random sample of 807 families from Qatar was surveyed, representing the general working Qatari population. The correlation between individuals’ work-family balance and their levels of job satisfaction has been identified as not achievable by most Qatari employees. The specific obstacle that hinders the maintenance of work-family balance is associated with the views that public and private organizations are not meeting expectations in terms of the support offered. Implementing improved employee-oriented human resource policies together with factors responsible for job satisfaction, such as supportive working environments, coworkers, supervisors, and spouses, are important for decreasing WFC and increasing work and life satisfaction.