New research conducted by the University of Salford highlights the significant pressures UK working women face as they juggle conflicting roles.
- The study involved 34 interviews and examined emotional and role conflicts experienced by women at home and work.
- Many women employ self-initiated strategies to manage conflicts, despite negative emotional repercussions.
- The lack of organisational support exacerbates the burden on these women, leading to considerable stress.
- The research aims to raise awareness and promote open dialogue about these challenges in the workplace.
Recent research from the University of Salford has brought to light the significant pressures faced by working women in the UK, as they navigate multiple roles, such as employee, parent, and carer. This study, consisting of 34 interviews, uniquely delves into emotional and role conflicts experienced by women, especially when personal and professional responsibilities collide.
The findings indicate that many women are forced to rely on self-initiated strategies to manage these conflicts, often at the expense of their emotional well-being. These strategies include sacrificing personal time, like lunch breaks, to handle household chores or taking pay cuts to fulfill childcare responsibilities. Despite these efforts, the emotional toll is considerable, with many reporting feelings of frustration and annoyance.
Moreover, the lack of sufficient organisational support further compounds these challenges, placing the onus on women to create their own solutions. While flexible working policies offer some respite, they also carry potential long-term repercussions as workloads can increase, further intensifying stress.
A significant objective of this research is to amplify women’s voices concerning the dual responsibilities they bear in personal and professional spheres. Fatima Malik, the Lecturer leading the study, emphasises the need for greater transparency and discussion within workplaces about these pressures. She notes, “The pressures of having to personally manage the tensions between work and life roles are an additional burden that employed women across the UK are carrying.”
The study underscores the importance of workplace policies facilitating a genuine work-life balance, as certain policies are counterproductive, contributing to an escalation in women’s workload. By opening up conversations and minimising stigma around these challenges, the research aims to foster environments where women can better manage their roles without detrimental effects on their well-being.
This research advocates for increased awareness and dialogue to alleviate the burdens faced by UK working women managing conflicting roles.
