WHEN WORK ENRICHES FAMILY-LIFE: THE MEDIATIONAL ROLE OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Structured Abstract: Purpose. Several studies have pointed out the importance of work-family enrichment (WFE) for individuals’ well-being and organizations; for this reason, it seems important to understand how organizations may promote it. This study attempts to understand the role of organizational resources and, particularly, of opportunities for professional development (OPD), in promoting WFE. Specifically, it tests the mediation role of OPD between job resources (supervisor and colleague support, job security) and WFE. Design/methodology/approach. The present study was conducted using a self-report questionnaire administered to 353 employees and self-employed workers from different occupational sectors. Findings. Filling a gap in the literature, the results showed that two job resources (supervisor support and job security) increase OPD which, in turn, mediates the relationship between the two job resources and WFE. Colleague support showed only a direct positive effect on WFE. Research limitations/implications. The first limitation of this research concerns the cross-sectional design of the study, due to which no causal conclusions can be drawn. Moreover, future research might integrate some job demands and additional job resources into the model. Finally, a deeper understanding of the construct of OPD emerged as necessary, as well as more accurate instruments to measure it. Practical implications. Based on our findings, organizations are encouraged to improve opportunities for job training and professional development, with important benefits for individuals, in terms of quality of work and life, and for organizations, in terms of better job attitudes and performance. Moreover, as regards job security, more protection should be given to workers in order to enhance the quality of workplace learning and extra-work life. Originality/value. This study highlighted the importance of integrating OPD into work-family studies, demonstrating their role in enhancing the quality of life in the family domain. Furthermore, this study is one of the first to focus on job security as a significant resource in promoting professional development.