Impact of Digitalisation on Work-life Balance among Dual-earner Couples: A Qualitative Examination

Description

Page: 355-363

Hardika Maheshwari and Surekha Chukkali (Department of Psychological Sciences, Christ University, Delhi NCR)

Digitalisation has redefined work and personal life dynamics, offering opportunities and challenges for work-life balance. Integrating digital tools enables flexible work schedules and remote access, enhancing productivity and connectivity. However, these advancements also blur boundaries, increasing role conflicts and stress. Understanding how digitalisation impacts work-life balance among dual-earner couples is essential as they navigate the demands of professional space alongside personal responsibilities. This qualitative study investigates the impact of digital technologies on work-life integration through semi-structured interviews with dual-earner couples across professions. While digital tools enhance efficiency and support remote work, they also contribute to challenges such as role blurring and digital overload. Participants highlighted strategies like boundary-setting and reliance on organisational support to manage these challenges effectively. The study underscores the importance of organisational policies, including flexible work arrangements and digital connectivity management, to foster sustainable work-life balance. These findings offer practical insights for organisations and policymakers to navigate the complexities of a digitalised work environment. While the cross-sectional design and sample size limit generalizability, future research should explore longitudinal trends and cultural variations to provide a deeper understanding.