The Mediating Role of Work–Family Interface in the Relationship Between Quantitative Workload and Interpersonal Strain: A Gender-Based Moderation Analysis

Abstract

Purpose: The study investigates the role of work-family interface dimensions (negative work-to-family interface, NEGWIF; negative family-to-work interface, NEGFIW; positive work-to-family interface, POSWIF; and positive family-to-work interface, POSFIW) as mediators in the relationship between workload and interpersonal strain. In addition, we examined the moderating effect of gender. Design/methodology/approach: 319 Italian employees working in the commercial sector participants completed a self-report questionnaire. The hypothesized models were tested using PROCESS Macro. Findings: Work–family interface dimensions totally mediated the relationship between workload and interpersonal strain. Moderating influence of gender was found. Gender moderated the relationship between workload and three work–family interface dimensions—NEGWIF, POSWIF and POSFIW—in the indirect relationship between workload and interpersonal strain. Research limitations/implications: This study suggests to organizations that moderate workload and family-friendly policies can act as a protective factor against interpersonal strain. The limitations of the study are the use of self-report measures and the cross-sectional design. Originality/value: This research attempted to fill the gap in interpersonal strain and relationships with the work–family interface.