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Capella University
August 2010
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Abstract
Flexible work arrangements are tied to turnover, absenteeism, job satisfaction,
productivity and worklife balance. The purpose of this research is threefold: (a)
Examine the relationship between flexible work arrangement programs, job satisfaction,
productivity and worklife balance; (b) identify jobs that are best suited for these
strategies and identify a number of companies tat have been successful in using these
strategies; and (c) discuss the advantages and disadvantages of flexible work
arrangements for both employees and employers. Survey data were collected from 200
individuals who participate in various forms of flexible work arrangement programs. The
participants completed the short form Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (Weiss,
Dawis, England, & Lofquist, 1967). The instrument consisted of 20 factors that measured
the relationships between job satisfaction and worklife balance. A demographic
questionnaire was also used. Herzbergs (1987) motivation-hygiene theory was used as
the framework to examine job satisfaction and worklife balance in a sample of 200
participants.
REFERENCES
Herzberg, F. (1987). One more time: How do you motivate employees? Harvard
Business Review, 65(5), 109120.
Weiss, D. J., Dawis, R. V., England, G. W., & Lofquist, L. H. (1967). Manual for the
Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire. Minneapolis: University of Minnesota.
Dedication
This dissertation is dedicated to my husband, Dwight, my daughters, Brittany and
Joey, my son, Thomas, my parents, the late Freeman and Gladys Hrobowski, and my
brothers and sisters. It is truly a blessing to have (or have had) you in my life. Thank you
for your love and support which has sustained me throughout this long and sometimes
arduous journey.
iii
Acknowledgments
Without the support and encouragement of my mentor, committee members,
family, friends, and fellow classmates, I could not have achieved this momentous goal.
My gratitude and appreciation to all who contributed to my success is immeasurable.
I would like to thank my mentor, Dr. Frank DeCaro, and my committee members,
Dr. Luis Rivera and Dr. David Balch. I am eternally grateful for your expertise and
guidance throughout this challenging, but rewarding experience. I am truly grateful to the
research participants for extending their time and support to my research effort. Thanks to
my advisor, Laura Hutt, who was always willing to listen and make suggestions.
A special thanks to a young man I met at the University of Michigan. I could not
have completed this chapter in my life without your expertise.
iv
Table of Contents
Acknowledgments
iv
List of Tables
viii
List of Figures
ix
CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION
10
Rationale
10
Research Questions
11
11
Definition of Terms
12
13
14
14
15
15
19
20
21
24
25
26
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CHAPTER 3. METHODOLOGY
32
Introduction
32
Description of Methodology
32
33
34
Instrumentation/Measures
36
38
Data Collection
40
41
Ethical Considerations
42
44
Introduction
44
Data Collection
45
Research Sample
46
50
Research Question 1
52
Research Question 2
62
Research Question 3
67
Summary
76
vi
80
Summary
80
Conclusions
91
Recommendations
93
94
REFERENCES
97
106
108
113
122
vii
List of Tables
Table 1. Participants Personal Characteristics
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51
Table 4. Means
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61
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64
65
68
69
72
76
77
viii
List of Figures
Figure 1. Extrinsic factors and job satisfaction
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CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION
I believe a balanced life is essential, and I try to make sure that all of our
employees know that and live that way. Its crucial to me as a manager
that I help ensure that our employees are as successful as our customers
and partners. I also think that employees these days expect less of a
separation of work and personal life. That doesnt mean that work tasks
should encroach upon our personal time, but it does mean that employees
today expect more from the companies for whom they work.
Marc Benioff, CEO, Salesforce.com
Bias in Research
Bias is any influence or condition that distorts data (Leedy & Ormrod, 2001). Bias
attacks the integrity of the facts; therefore, the goal of the researcher is to minimize bias.
Research is a process that is never totally objective or completely independent;
therefore, researchers can always expect some bias. When interpreting data, researchers
sometimes produce methodical errors. Researchers must scrutinize the data in order to
avoid or at least minimize errors. The researchers interpretation must not be affected by
what the researcher wishes to discover, but rather what the facts of the research are. As a
researcher, one must commit to the research being conducted and should not deliberately
attempt to reject the results of the research (Cooper & Schindler, 2006; Leedy & Ormrod,
2001).
Theoretical Foundation of the Study
Many organizations have changed their work environment because they recognize
that their employees are valuable assets and want them to commit themselves to the
company. When employees are recognized and rewarded for the efforts that they have
contributed to the organization, many are motivated to be more effective and efficient;
they tend to stay longer with the company and are more satisfied with their job. Giving
employees more responsibilities will serve as their motivation for advancement and
growth (Herzberg, 1987).
People work for a variety reasons, the most apparent being the need for money.
However, it is not just the money that keeps them showing up for work every day. A
complex problem in this area is the ability to understand and explain why some people do
not enjoy their work and others do. Obviously there is no single resolution for satisfying
2
everybody in the workplace. Therefore, managers must recognize and understand the
concept of job satisfaction and dissatisfaction and related issues.
The theoretical framework for the study was based on Herzbergs motivationhygiene theory. He based the theory on his interviews with over 200 engineers and
accountants. The interviews assisted in establishing factors that determine ones
satisfaction or dissatisfaction with his or her job. From the findings, Herzberg came to the
conclusion that these factors are separate and distinct. According to Herzberg, Mausner,
and Snyderman (1959), job satisfaction is positively related to achievement, opportunity
for personal growth, stimulating work, recognition, responsibility, and promotion
opportunities, which are factors related to outcomes associated with the work itself. He
labeled these factors motivators because they were associated with high levels of job
satisfaction. In contrast, he linked job dissatisfaction with factors he termed hygiene.
Examples of hygiene factors are job security, salary, working conditions, relationships
with others, company policies and procedures, and the quality of supervision. Herzberg
(1987) claimed that employees who satisfy their hygiene factors will reduce their job
dissatisfaction.
employees personal needs while contributing to the organization, and recruiting and
retaining valuable employees.
A common element in the lives of all employees is the need to be flexible. Some
Traditionalists want to move into retirement slowly; Baby Boomers must often assume
responsibility for taking care of their ailing or aging parents and Generation Xers need
time to participate in school and community activities with their children. The terms,
Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Generation Xers are explained in the definition of terms
section of this study. Many employers have discovered that increasing work schedule
flexibility does not interfere with maintaining acceptable levels of productivity (Reese,
Rowings, & Sharpley, 2007).
Today, some employees do not go to their offices every day. They have the
opportunity to work at home or spend less time at the office and maintain the same level
or better efficiency. Because of the impact it has had on families, this work option has
been the topic of much research. Parents have the opportunity to spend more time at
home and be hands-on parents. Working at home is one of the benefits of flexible work
arrangements. The time spent preparing for work and traveling to work can be used for
other family activities. Using mobile telecommunications technology and on-call work
arrangements allows for spending less time in the office. These strategies can increase
productivity and reduce absenteeism (Desrochers & Sargent, 2003).
Telecommuting
According to Manochehri and Pinkerton (2003), telecommuting is a preferred
substitute to working in an office. Both employees and employers have many reasons to
consider telecommuting programs. Benefits that can be realized by using telecommuting
5
include schedule and location flexibility, enhanced employee satisfaction, attracting and
retaining employees, productivity improvement, cost reduction, and benefiting society.
However, the potential benefits of this work option can be realized only if organizations
identify and address the challenges associated with telecommuting. Some challenges
include the nature of jobs, company culture, selection of employees, providing the
required infrastructure, awareness of legal considerations, overcoming resistance to
telecommuting, monitoring and performance measurements, and employee isolation and
communication.
The advantages of telecommuting for some employees can be very valuable. One
huge advantage an employee has when telecommuting is the flexibility to coordinate
work schedules and family responsibilities. Flexible working arrangements improve the
quality of the work performed. More control over ones life can be achieved when family
and work life are in balance. Turnover, job satisfaction, performance and stress, are
influenced by the advantages and benefits of telecommuting. According to the authors,
employees who telecommute 2.5 days per week heighten its favorable effects on work
and family (Gajendran & Harrison, 2007).
Compressed Work Week
Compressed work weeks allow employees to work a variety of schedules such as
4 days a week for 10-hour days or 12+ hours 3 days a week. In a recent meta-analysis
study, compressed work week schedules showed a favorable effect on the participants
work outcomes (e.g., productivity, absenteeism, job satisfaction and overall satisfaction).
The positive consequences may subsequently lead to an increase in organizational
performance (Sands & Harper, 2007). Disadvantages such as fatigue, stress, and
6
decreased productivity have been responsible for the limited acceptance of the
compressed work week schedule option (Vega & Gilbert, 1997).
Among employers, the compressed work week is one of the most preferred work
schedules. For example, Texas Instruments provides compressed work weeks, which
consist of 12-hour days, working 3 days one week and 4 days the following week.
Scheduling of this nature has had a positive effect on productivity by reducing the
number of shifts and time-consuming changeovers from three to two. One benefit of
offering a compressed work week is to make the job more attractive to employees. The
advantages of this scheduling system for employees include 3- and 4-day weekends,
potential savings on childcare and gas, more personal time, and increased employee
morale. A compressed work week also provides mutual benefits for employers by saving
operating cost, increased productivity, making employees more focused on the task at
hand and providing a recruiting advantage. A major shortcoming of flextime is that
employees who work long days may develop fatigue. This sometimes results in
eliminating the benefits (Erickson, 2005).
Work Sharing/Job Sharing
Work-sharing arrangements allow the duties and responsibilities of a full-time job
to be shared among two or more employees. For example, two department representatives
may be responsible for the whole job and all tasks. Alternatively, some projects may be
assigned independently, one employee work in the am and the other work in the pm.
Frequently, employees alternate days or develop some other schedule for sharing. On a
short-term basis, this work option can help transition experienced workers into retirement
while training their replacement. Over a longer term, it allows part-time employees to
remain in the job market and earn income (Preston, 2007).
Work-sharing benefits both employees and employers. When the organizations
are dedicated to meeting their personal needs, employees tend to become more loyal to
their employers. At the same time, employers avoid high turnover and reduce the cost of
benefits. However, employees who participate in work-sharing programs receive fewer
benefits and are at risk of being the first to be laid off when organizations make
workforce cutbacks. In general, work sharing has become a popular modified work
schedule. A survey of 1,000 American employers found that more than 28% of
employers offered job-sharing programs (Preston, 2007).
According to Sherwyn and Sturman (2002), job sharing provides a tool that adds a
layer of protection that lies between contingent workers and layoffs of core employees.
Layoffs are not the options to consider when economic conditions reduce the workforce
to the point where eliminating contingent-work arrangements is not enough.
Flextime
Flextime was initially introduced by Christel Kaemmerev in 1956 and
implemented in West German businesses in 1967 (Avery & Zabel, 2001). According to
Hicks and Klimoski (1981), flextime was introduced (1970s) to American businesses to
reduce crowding in parking facilities. Because of the positive effects on employee
attitude, flextime became popular as a means to adapt hours to the requirements of the
workforce. Flextime allows employees to exercise their discretion regarding the times
they want to work. This work option was used as a retention and recruitment tool during
the 20th century.
8
Rationale
Herzbergs theory illustrates that hygiene factors are a platform for employee
satisfaction while the motivator factors of recognition is instrumental to engendering
ones productivity and growth (Herzberg et al., 1959).
This study was designed to enhance ones knowledge about flexible work
arrangements, and how these strategies affect job satisfaction and worklife balance.
10
Work flexibility has become an important topic of interest for employees and employers
alike. To assist managers with understanding the relationships and factors linked to
worklife balance and job satisfaction, this situation needs to be talked about at length in
the workplace. This dissertation presented another opportunity to contribute to the
knowledge of flexible work arrangements. Employers can use this information to help
attract and keep competent employees.
Research Questions
1. Is there a relationship between demographic variables and job satisfaction?
2. Is job satisfaction and dissatisfaction related to motivator and hygiene factors?
3. Is there a relationship between extrinsic factors and worklife balance?
located around the world. Therefore, keeping everyone on the same page when work is
not even in the same time zone becomes very difficult. Even so, many organizations are
finding that the advantages of having such diverse workforce outweigh the challenges.
With this in mind, management needs to reevaluate and update strategies to meet the
challenges in a highly globalized business environment (Kooser, 2005).
Definition of Terms
The definitions that follow will help the reader understand the terms and concepts
related to this study.
Baby Boomer. Individuals born between 1946 and 1964, and represents one of the
largest populations born (Herman, 2006).
Compressed work week. According to Mitchell and Williamson (2003), the
compressed work schedule consists of working a full-time schedule in fewer, longer days.
ones home or other remote location outside the companys office.
Flexible work arrangements. Work arrangements that let employees have some
control over when and where they work (Lambert, Marler, & Gueutal, 2008).
Flextime. According to Brookshire (2002), flextime allows an employee to change
his or her start and end time, but be at work for core hours of the day, and work a
standard number of hours within a specified time.
Generation Xers. Individuals born between 1065 and 1980 (Hatfield, 2002).
Job satisfaction. Operationally defined as ones positive feelings or attitudes
towards ones occupation (Moore, 2008).
12
14
This chapter identified available and relevant literature from a variety of sources.
The review begins with a discussion of literature that relates to the types of flexible work
arrangements programs, companies who were successful in using flexible work
arrangement strategies, and advantages and disadvantages of flexible work arrangement
programs. Next is a discussion of flexible work arrangements and worklife balance,
flexible work arrangements and job satisfaction, and future trends in flexible work
arrangement programs. Last is a discussion of Herzbergs motivation-hygiene theory.
15
As computer programmers became more important and harder to find in the early
1970s, companies like Control Data Corporation (CDC) began to explore the concept of
working at home as recruitment tool. Programmers liked the idea of not being stuffed into
a corporate office and being able to concentrate any hour on his or her work. CDCs
telecommuting policy gave it a competitive advantage for a time in the hiring of
programmers (Piskurich, 1998).
When Congress amended the Clean Air Act, many companies were motivated to
implement telecommuting programs. As a result, 11 states with the poorest air quality
were targeted to reduce daily commuting. Telecommuting was used to help organization
in these states reduce the number of employees who commuted daily (Siha & Monroe,
2006).
In 2000, the Behavior Research Center conducted a study sponsored by AT&T.
The study concluded that about 17 million workers aged 18 and older could be classified
as teleworkers. In addition, the researchers revealed that over half of these employees had
worked offsite for about 3 years, and 2.8 million of these employees had limited
experience. This statistic showed a quick increase in offsite workers and a 20% increase
in the growth rate over a year earlier (Gibson, Blackwell, Dominicis, & Demerath, 2002).
Flextime
Flextime is a very popular flexible work option. It is used by both public and
private sector employers. Flextime allows flexibility in start and finish times, with no
change in the workers total hours worked. For instance, a couples partner uses flextime
and starts work early. With a shortened lunch, the partner is able take care of the children
after school. These schedules seem to work better for the couple than the standard 9-to-5
16
questionnaires and case study data collected on individual companies. Very little
longitudinal data were used, which makes generalization about private and public sector
industries complex and narrow in focus (Vega & Gilbert, 1997).
Hyland, Rowsome, and Rowsome (2005) observed that mixed results have been
found in studies conducted on compressed work weeks. Some researchers found
reductions in sick time and use of personal leave, improved service and productivity (four
out of seven studies) in which compressed work weeks were investigated. There was no
change reported in three out the seven studies.
Job Sharing/Work Sharing
According to Crampton and Mishra (2005), the concept of job sharing was
introduced as a result of the 1978 Federal Employee Part-Time Career Employment Act.
The legislation was enacted to increase the number of workers who wanted to work less
than 40 hours per week. Additionally, this legislation authorized job sharing for federal
employees, which opened the door for further implementation. The authors note that
radical changes have occurred in the workforce which caused companies to reexamine
this viable alternative work arrangement. There have been reports of many benefits
associated with this work option; however, disadvantages also exist. Many companies
that offer job sharing to retain employees indicate that they are willing to use this flexible
work option, but it is sometimes difficult to find employees to participate in the program.
One reason for this is because job sharing may not be suitable for every company or
every employee. Another reason is that sometimes employees are afraid of management
disapproval or career disintegration (Crampton & Mishra, 2005). Work sharing may
influence employee productivity. For example, if employees work fewer hours per week
18
and reduce fatigue, their productivity may increase. On the other hand, this work option
can create situations where worker productivity is decreased and adds to the need for
more workers (Lanoie, Raymond, & Shearer, 2001). Job sharing can be a solution to help
employees juggle family and work obligations, reduce layoffs, produce happy and
productive employees, part-time professional work, and increase employee commitment
and organizational loyalty (Branine, 2003; Franklin, 1999).
that is suitable for this is commission-based in which workers get paid in line with the
results of his or her work. Employees who have found alternative work arrangements
most suitable for them are those who have issues between work and family life.
Additionally, older workers who have less endurance for a 9-to-5 work routine have
found that this work option is very favorable (Flexible Work Arrangements Attract
Older Workers, 2007).
According to Scordato and Harris (1990), flexible work arrangements can be
successful in many different positions and functional areas. For example, line jobs,
supervisory positions, and jobs with heavy client contact. Some job titles include
architect, benefits administrator, counselor, daycare director, electrical engineer, financial
analyst, graphic designer, human resource generalist, information specialist, international
manager, and network engineer.
best scores in performance ratings. KPMG LLP, a company that specializes in providing
audits, tax and advisory services, also offer flexible work schedules, which is part of their
objectives to become more flexible. As a result of using open work programs, Sun
Microsystems found that employees become more productive and become more satisfied
with the company. Moreover, Sun Microsystems employees who work at home have the
best scores in performance ratings. KPMG LLP, a company that specializes in providing
audits, tax and advisory services, also offer flexible work schedules, which is part of their
objectives to become more flexible. In its effort to become more flexible; the company is
offering compressed work weeks where employees are encouraged to leave work by 3:00
p.m. on Fridays.
Best Buy Co. Incorporated offers alternate work programs through its ResultsOnly Work Environments (ROWE). Here, the hours of work in a day are not defined.
What matters is that employees achieve the results they set at the end of the day. PNC
Financial Services Group has some 12,000 or more employees on flextime, which
includes job sharing, compressed work weeks and telecommuting. Finally, there is
PricewaterhouseCoopers, which offers tax and advisory services to their clients.
Approximately 40% of their employees work on an informal basis. Every employee is
given a laptop at this company, and with it, they can work flexible hours, compressed
work weeks, telecommuting and so on (Five Flextime Friendly Companies, 2007).
may be a motivating factor for employers and employees. When employers realize the
economic benefits of such programs, they will allow and promote them. Much has been
written about the potential cost savings (and sometimes additional costs) that may arise
because of flexible work arrangement options (Kaczmarczyk, 2004; Shoop, 2006). Cost
reduction is often considered the main reason for an organization to use flexible work
arrangements.
Best Buy Co. Incorporated offers alternate work programs through its ROWE.
Here, the hours of work in a day are not defined. What matters is that employees achieve
the results they set at the end of the day. PNC Financial Services Group has some 12,000
or more employees on flextime, which includes job sharing, compressed work weeks and
telecommuting. Finally, there is PricewaterhouseCoopers, which offers tax and advisory
services to their clients. Approximately 40% of their employees work on an informal
basis. Every employee is given a laptop at this company, and with it, they can work
flexible hours, compressed work weeks, telecommuting and so on (Five Flextime
Friendly Companies, 2007).
These issues viewed from the perspective of the employer and employees provide
strong motivations for using these programs. Cost savings that result from such programs
may be a motivating factor for employers and employees. When employers realize the
economic benefits of such programs, they will allow and promote them. Much has been
written about the potential cost savings (and sometimes additional costs) that may arise
because of flexible work arrangement options (Kaczmarczyk, 2004; Shoop, 2006). Cost
reduction is often considered the main reason for an organization to use flexible work
arrangements. Some advantages enjoyed by employers and employees include lower fuel
22
costs, more transportation options, more parking availability, reduced stress, improved
morale and productivity, longer periods of time away from the office with no reduction in
the employees leave balance, service hours can be extended, and minimal absences and
tardiness. Because a more flexible starting and ending time can be agreed upon,
employers enjoy enhanced recruitment and retention, and employees benefit from better
opportunities for cross-training due to coverage adjustments and shared job
responsibilities (Creagh & Brewster, (1998).
Of course, some disadvantages also exist. These include loss of work unit
cohesion due to reduced face-to-face interactions, working in a central location may
cause some employees to feel distanced from the other workers, and more distractions
may occur when working from home. Other disadvantages include lower productivity,
the boundary of work time and personal time can become unclear when working from
home, and other workers in the work unit may feel they must work beyond their strength
or capacity. There are still other disadvantages, including tracking employee time
becomes complex, monitoring employees becomes more difficult; and the direct costs of
some flexible work arrangements may not be offset by increased productivity, reductions
in resource requirements, or reduced costs (Kush & Stroh, 1994).
There are many advantages to flexible work arrangements, including increased
job satisfaction, higher employee productivity, lower absenteeism and turnover, and
reduced costs associated with real estate. In addition, flexible work arrangements help
employers attract well-educated applicants, strengthen the recruitment strategy of the
organization, and maintain compliance with the Clean Air Act and the Americans with
Disabilities Act (Maxwell, Rankine, Bell, & MacVicar, 2007). Review of the literature
23
shows that flexible starting and ending times reduce loss of work due to mild illnesses,
allow greater flexibility in office space and equipment use during peak times (Creagh &
Brewster, 1998). Maxwell et al. identified several potentially negative factors: errors due
to fatigue, communication problems, continuity and isolation at work, minimized staffing
levels, and lean production lines.
First, finding a worklife balance helps sustain the inner core of energy and serves to
reduce work related stresses (Periyakoil, 2007, p. 308). The statement is not only valid,
but it is something that people can process and internalize on many levels. Based on the
research they conducted relating to balance and job satisfaction, Bryant and Constantine
(2006) suggested that (according to the role balance theory), women can function in
multiple roles during their life time. Further, the authors contend that the issues affecting
both womens physical health and mental depends on the extent that they organize the
roles in their lives. When one lacks in leveraging the responsibilities in his or her life, this
potentially leads to undue stress and unwanted stress, which leads to negative attitudes
and behaviors in peoples personal life and professional life. Encompassing this pattern
lies the problem of conflict arising which in reality could help ensure that peoples work
and life responsibilities are kept in balance.
include recognition, compensation, supervision, job security, and advancement on the job
to name a few (D. J. Weiss, Dawis, England, & Lofquist, 1967).
Flexible work schedules rate very high for employees interested in balancing
personal and work life and factors that contribute to job satisfaction. Randstad of North
America conducted a survey of 6,000 workers. Of these 6,000 participants, 51% indicated
that if their current employer offered flexible work hours they would continue to work for
the company. A number of employers discovered that flexible work schedules have more
benefits than loyal workers. For example, Aladdin Equipment of Sarasota, Florida, found
that absenteeism dropped 50%, and productivity increased by 10% when it changed its
traditional work schedule to four 9-hour days and 4 hours on Friday. All time sales
records were broken at another company that implemented a p.m. ending time for
employees who exceeded their sales goals (Boehle, Stamps, & Stratton, 2000; Ghazzawi,
2008).
indicated that structured programs seemed to be the main ingredient to achieve success in
these work options. Everyone knows what is expected of them when parameters are set
and enforced. Respondents said that the leading reasons employees want more flexible
arrangements are changes in family circumstances, greater need for child and elder care,
seeing other employees in the organization using these options, and the availability of
these options at other organizations (Flexible Work Grows as Work/Life Solution,
2004).
Not everyone seems to agree about the importance of flexible work arrangements.
According to Benko and Weisberg (2008), flextime and worklife balance is becoming
less important. Todays workforce is dominated by knowledge workers with different
goals and options; therefore, flextime and worklife balance is less important. The
authors also argue that flexible work arrangements do not address the fundamental needs
of the changing workforce although they have been helpful to some.
response, job dissatisfaction will be more likely. Discrepancy theories deal with the needs
and wants of the employee. If employees are not fulfilled the greater the dissatisfaction
with their work (J. I. Harris, Winskowski, & Engdahl, 2007; Herzberg et al., 1959;
Michalos, 1991).
Herzberg proceeded to conduct his own study. His survey research was
undertaken with engineers and accountants in nine manufacturing firms in Pittsburgh,
PA. His questions were twofold. In the first, he asked people to describe situations in
their workplace that made them feel good about their job. The second were questions
about what made them feel bad. When interviewing employees, he found a pattern.
People seemed to feel good about their jobs, but had very different responses when asked
about bad situations. For Herzberg, these differences seemed to run out of context from
the one-line continuum that earlier theories operated (Herzberg et al., 1959).
The two-factor theory helps improve worker comradeship and workersupervisor
relationships. Essentially, because of Herzbergs theory, working became more
interesting as employees need not worry that the organization is no longer playing a tugof-war between satisfying their physiological and psychological needs. Furthermore, this
theory improved the aspect of promotion. Before, promotion was primarily a notion of
giving an employee more responsibility. Today, there is much more importance placed on
promotion as it is now marketed to provide growth, recognition and higher salaries.
Fundamentally, the importance of the two-factor theory to individuals is that it
accommodates self-fulfillment on the job, and it gives individual workers status which
defines ones place or rank in the organization (Williamson, 1986).
28
Good business sense tells us that Herzbergs theory is valid. A good company
policy or a neat work setting does not necessarily lead an employee to keep working. Nor
it is not reason enough for him or her to decide to stay on the job. A higher salary does
not necessarily mean an employee will be happy with his or her job. Conversely,
recognition of a job well done or career advancement are not factors that will
automatically avoid feelings of dissatisfaction. A worker may be promoted, but the work
setting and or the salary is still poor or average which can cause dissatisfaction. Common
sense tells us that a hostile work environment, no matter how much psychological needs
are provided will not counter dissatisfaction. The same applies to physiological needs. In
a statement made by Herzberg in 1968, he said that his two-factor theory has been
replicated 16 times in various populations, which included Communist countries.
Researchers he collaborated with later on were said to agree with his original findings
concerning intrinsic motivations, making it one of the most replicated findings on worker
attitudes (Sachau, 2007).
Although Herzbergs theory is not without criticism, it opened many doors to the
study of human satisfaction (Hinrichs & Mischkind, 1967; Hinton, 1968). Others
criticized Herzbergs theory because of its dimensionality and methodology. Because of
it, many researchers went back to believing that satisfaction and dissatisfaction no longer
exist in separate dimensions. Although Herzbergs theory is still influential, some regard
it as obsolete. When Herzberg asked employees what situations satisfied and dissatisfied
them, he was already framing the answer itself, which would indeed lead him to believe
that they are two phenomena. His assumptions are further skewed when, during the
interviews, the respondents gave a socially acceptable answer (or what they believe the
29
interviewer wanted to hear). The bidimensionality aspect of his theory closed the doors
on any possibilities that there are individual differences between employees. Herzberg
assumed immediately that all employees had similar personality traits; they have the
same reactions; that achievement, recognition and growth are boxed-in with motivator
factors; and salary, working conditions, and company policies are sets of hygiene factors.
Moreover, Herzberg is criticized for assuming a great deal regarding human behavior
(Herzberg et al., 1993; Phelps & Waskel, 1994). For instance, Herzberg assumed that
satisfied and happy workers are sufficient enough to explain their productivity levels; all
workers carry average behavior and so on. Indeed, getting recognition might lead
individuals to work more, but does not necessarily improve his or her productivity levels.
Still other researchers criticized Herzberg regarding satisfaction and dissatisfaction as
mutually exclusive for the obvious reason that some motivators contribute to both
motivation and hygiene factors (Friedlander, 1964). Salary can also satisfy a mans
psychological need as it gives him status in the organization (Sachau, 2007).
Herzbergs motivation-hygiene theory can be used to address motivational
concerns. Outcomes such as absenteeism, lagging performance, and turnover, can be
reduced when managers show employees that they care about them and recognize them
for good performance. Line employees are motivated by hygiene factors such as salary,
overtime, bonuses, and health benefits. The authors state that there is a lack of social
recognition, which plays an important part in increasing workers productivity (McElroy,
Liddell, Richman, & Thompson, 2008).
Herzberg applied job enrichment to the motivation-hygiene theory. Job
enrichment involves modifying jobs so that employees and experience more of the
30
31
CHAPTER 3. METHODOLOGY
Introduction
In this chapter, the researcher discussed the research method that was used in
conducting the research. The following discussion presented the description of the
methodology, design of the study, sample and population, instrumentation and measures,
reliability, validity, data collection, data analysis procedures, and ethical considerations.
This research examined the relationship between flexible work arrangements, job
satisfaction, and worklife balance; identified organizations that were successful in using
these strategies; identified jobs that were best suited for these work options, and
advantages and disadvantages for both employees and employers.
Description of Methodology
The work was a descriptive, quantitative study. Koul (1984) considered
descriptive research a very popular and widely used research method. Additionally, he
suggests that descriptive methods are designed to obtain pertinent and precise
information about the phenomena and formulate valid conclusions from the facts that the
researcher uncovers.
According to Isaac and Michael (1981), the quantitative, descriptive method of
research systematically describes the facts and characteristics of the researchers topic of
32
interest consistent with the facts. Descriptive research allowed the researcher to describe
and evaluate the aspects of the participants feelings, opinions, and attitudes toward
flexible work arrangements, job satisfaction, and worklife balance. The researchers
decision to use a survey to collect the data further established the suitability of this
methodology (Lee, 1992).
literacy in order for the surveys to be effective. Although possible, using an oral survey is
very impractical (Graverson, 2008; Idea, n.d.).
How the questionnaires are disseminated, is an important consideration. The
considerations for this process are budgets, time limitations and the level of anonymity
desired for a study. Presently, e-communication is thought to be the best mode of
dissemination since it is easier to access and disseminate at almost no cost. Respondents
were able to respond effectively and in a user-friendly medium (Burns et al., 2008;
Pinterick, 2005). For the pretest, the questionnaire was distributed via email to 40
participant surrogates. In the actual research study, the questionnaire was distributed via
email to 200 participants.
35
Instrumentation/Measures
The MSQ (short form), which was used for the study, contained multiple
measurement variables to assess job satisfaction. In this study, the research was intended
to examine how employees job satisfaction and worklife balance relates to tenure, age,
education, income, and other demographics. This tool measured intrinsic and extrinsic
job satisfaction. This instrument was selected because of its acceptance and wide usage in
the research community and, therefore, has sufficient internal validity and reliability to
measure job satisfaction (DeMato & Curcio, 2004; Van Horn, 2008; van Saane, Sluiter,
Verbeek, & Frings-Dresen, 2003).
The data collected were analyzed to determine differences in job satisfaction and
worklife balance. Inferential statistical methods such as an independent measure t test,
confidence level, and multiple regression testing were performed on the dependent and
independent variables. An idea of the direction and strength of the relationship between
the variables will be provided through the use of measures of correlation. Descriptive
statistics (means and standard deviations) will help readers get an understanding of the
data and identify any potential problems that can skew the analysis. To determine central
tendencies of the data, means will be computed, and to discover the extent of the variance
of the data, standard deviation will be computed.
According to Leedy and Ormrod (2001), researchers are unable to avoid
encountering bias of one sort or another. To handle this problem, the authors suggest that
researchers accept this fact as an inevitable condition in research and not be unduly upset.
36
Instrument
Biases here are most likely because of the way the questions are put together and
the kind of questions asked. The survey questionnaire is created to reflect the answers the
researcher is looking for. The MSQ limits answers to one of the five categories listed.
Questionnaires often do that leaving little or no room for gray areas of concern. The
wording of the answer choices is also a way to create bias. The use of words like very
and extreme can mean different things to different people. In some cases, the differences
in how people perceive words like very satisfied and extremely satisfied can make a
difference in how they might answer. The order of choice is important, as well. Starting
with very dissatisfied and ending with very satisfied guide people to consider the negative
first. However, starting with the positive first can skew the survey to more positive results
than may occur. Some people limit themselves to the first answers or do not read
completely through an answer choice before answering the question.
Participants
Everyone has their own agenda. When participants are part of a research study,
care has to be taken to consider the background and experiences of the people being
interviewed and questioned. For example, the obvious questionssuch as Are you
satisfied with your lifestyle?are going to be very different when posed to those whose
income is less than $20,00 and those whose income is more than $100,000. Issues such as
quality of care in a hospital intensive care unit are also going to be based on experiences
including whether or not the patient involved became better. The researcher has to take
these experiences and challenges that people face into consideration. Cooper and
37
Schindler (2006) suggested that responses should be accepted for what they are
statements by individuals who reflect varying degrees of truth and accuracy.
Researcher
The first thing that a researcher must learn is to address his or her own biases
about the subject. There is a reason the researcher chooses a subject to be researched. The
researcher must understand the approach he or she takes and the questions or hypothesis
formulated. The people and data used are a choice that can be based on trying to achieve
what the researcher believes to be true. Researchers are also people with experiences and,
therefore, must examine and note those in their research evaluation (Robson, 2002).
38
convergent validity scale total and subscale correlation range (0.49), discriminate validity
(0.50), and content validity that contain at least 4 of 11 factors (van Saane et al., 2003).
The instruments reliability is based on Hoyts analysis of variance (ANOVA)
method which demonstrates that the MSQ scales have internal, consistent reliability. For
intrinsic satisfaction, researchers reported that coefficients for the short-form scale ranged
from .84 to .91 and from 77 to .82 for the extrinsic scale and from .87 to .92 for the
general satisfaction scale. The validity of the short form MSQ is contingent on the
validity of the long form MSQ which shows the validity through its performance
according to theoretical expectations (D. J. Weiss et al., 1967).
Cronbachs alpha was used to test for reliability. Cronbachs alpha measures how
well each item in a scale correlates with the sum of the remaining items. It also measured
consistency among the items in a scale (Cronbach, 1951).
Validity is the extent that a test measures what the researcher needs to measure.
Reliability is concerned with the accuracy and precision of measurement procedures. To
measure the validity (content and construct) of the survey, responses from the pretest
were analyzed. The various types of validity (face, content, construct and criterion) can
be measured in surveys. Face validity evaluates whether the questionnaire measures what
it is supposed to and is thought to be the most subjective. The researcher tests for content
validity by evaluating whether the questionnaire accurately measures every aspect of the
topic. Construct validity should be measured if specific criteria cannot be identified that
adequately defines the construct being measured. Criterion validity reflects the success of
measures used for prediction or estimation. Researcher must make sure that the validity
criterion used is itself valid (Cooper & Schindler, 2006, p. 320). These authors
39
suggested that any criterion measure should be judged in terms of several qualities: (a)
relevance, (b) freedom from bias, (c) reliability, and (d) availability.
Data Collection
The data were collected using a survey questionnaire. Questionnaires are useful
when the researcher needs to collect large amounts of information from people quickly or
easily. Several advantages are (a) can complete anonymously, (b) easy to compare and
analyze, (c) inexpensive to administer, (d) can administer to many people, and (e) can use
existing questionnaires. Some of the challenges of using questionnaires are (a) people
who receive them do not return them, (b) wording can bias responses, and (c) impersonal
so the researcher does not get the full story (Leedy & Ormrod, 2001).
The confidence level reveals the percent range of certainty generated from a
sample (+ or a certain value range), of how the whole population will respond to a
specific question. The wider the confidence interval accepted the more certain the entire
population answers will be within that particular range. The confidence level tells the
researcher how sure he or she can be because it represents how often the true percentage
of the population will choose an answer that falls within the confidence level. The
literature shows that most researchers use the 95% level. The choice of the significance
level used in this research will be .05, the most common level used by researchers
(Cooper & Schindler, 2006).
Participants completed the survey. Prior to the administration of the questionnaire,
40 pretest participants were selected from volunteers who participated from a request
made on the universitys Web site. All individuals were contacted via email. The
40
names: (a) listwise deletiondiscarding the surveys, (b) pairwise deletionmissing data
completely random and requires that the researcher estimate for consistency, and (c)
replacement of missing data requires the researcher to estimate the missing responses
based on the researchers choice of using average response or most used response to
capture the missing data. Generally, it is quite difficult to measure the effects when data
are missing. Analysis and interpretation of the data can be influenced by missing data.
To prepare and analyze the data, the researcher used SPSS and Excel software
packages. Mean score were computed and graphics created. A regression analysis of the
independent and dependent variables was performed.
Ethical Considerations
Robson (2002) stated that it is vital, at a very early stage of ones preparation to
carry out an enquiry, that the researcher gives serious thought to the ethical aspects of
what he or she is proposing. Taking this into consideration, this researcher adhered to the
highest ethical standards during the conduct of the research. All participants in the study
were provided, in writing, detailed information concerning the study and its purpose and
the study procedures.
The email invitation and online informed consent form assured participants
confidentiality and anonymity. The use of a third-party vendor, FreeOnlineSurveys.com,
assisted in maintaining the participants privacy and anonymity. The researcher did not
include any vulnerable populations in the study.
All data were used to prepare the dissertation. All data were analyzed, so the
researcher stored it in a secure location. The results of the study will not be shared with
42
anyone. The surveys, other paperwork, and software computations will remain in the
researchers possession within the statutory limits after publication of the dissertation at
which time all data will be shredded and discarded (G. McLaughlin, personal
communication, January 7, 2009).
43
Introduction
The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between job satisfaction
and worklife balance. The researcher identified organizations that were successful in
using alternative workplace strategies and identified jobs that were best suited for the
work options. The study discussed advantages and disadvantages for both employees and
employers and factors that determined job satisfaction and worklife balance.
Participants completed online instruments, which consisted of the MSQ and a
demographic survey. A description of the data collection method, the research sample,
the data analysis procedures, and the results of the data analysis from the survey data in
order to answer the following research questions are provided in this chapter:
1. Is there a relationship between demographic variables and job satisfaction?
2. Is job satisfaction and dissatisfaction related to motivator and hygiene factors?
3. Is there a relationship between extrinsic factors and worklife balance?
Results of the data analysis include descriptive statistics for each MSQ scale,
correlations, significance tests, and a summary of the research findings.
44
Data Collection
The researcher used the short form MSQ, which consisted of 20 statements
related to the participants work environment. The participants responded to the
statements by indicating his or her choice of how satisfied he or she was with his or her
present job. The participants checked the appropriate response according to five choices
and corresponding numerical assignment: 1 = very dissatisfied, 2 = dissatisfied, 3 =
neither satisfied nor dissatisfied, 4 = satisfied, and 5 = very satisfied.
The short form MSQ has statements that measured intrinsic motivators (e.g.,
achievement, recognition, responsibility, advancement, and other factors that motivate
employees). Some statements measured extrinsic motivators (e.g., salary, job security,
working conditions, status, organizational policies and procedures, quality of supervision,
and other job content).
A pretest that consisted of 40 participants was conducted prior to launching the
survey. The participants received an email invitation requesting their assistance in testing
the survey, with a link to FreeOnlineSurveys.com, an online survey provider. The email
informed participants that the survey and the six questions should be completed as soon
as possible, but not later than October 30, 2009.
The pretest participants were asked to access the Web link, where they completed
the actual survey and answered six brief questions about the MSQ. All participants
completed the questionnaire and answered the six questions. The participants provided
the following feedback regarding the questionnaire: (a) They were comfortable with the
questions and instructions for completing the survey questionnaire were easy to
understand, (b) the construction and design of the survey was very good, (c) the language
45
and terminology used in wording the questions was simple, (d) the length of the survey
was very good, (e) the appearance was simple, and (f) provided no recommendations for
improving the survey.
Research Sample
The researcher identified participants who met certain criteria, who in turn
identified other potential participants meeting the same criteria (Burns et al., 2008). The
key informants made initial contact with other potential participants who contacted the
researcher if they were interested in participating in the study. This explanatory research
project required 200 completed surveys in order to achieve statistically valid results.
Additionally, a sample of 200 would minimize shrinking of the multiple correlation
coefficients (Cohen, 1977). Furthermore, this size would yield power greater than .97 to
detect a moderate effect (2 = .15) in a multiple regression analysis at the .05 level.
According to Cohen, the power analysis accounted for the effect of sample size and the
probability of correctly rejecting the hypothesis.
Since there were a number of options available to employees participating in
flexible work arrangement programs inclusion or exclusion of certain groups of workers,
the participants used in this research were male and female employees who were
involved in such programs at least once a month and were not self-employed. The
participants in this study represented individuals who worked in both private and public
sectors (e.g., federal government, professional and business services, insurance and
healthcare industries).
46
Proportion (%)
Gender
Male
Female
33.0
67.1
66
134
Race/ethnicity
White
Black
Hispanic American
Asian American
Other
Did not identify
42.0
31.5
13.0
10.0
2.5
1.0
84
63
26
20
5
2
Marital status
Married
Unmarried/partner
Unmarried/no partner
46.5
13.0
40.5
93
26
81
60.0
20.0
11.5
7.5
0.5
0.5
120
40
23
15
1
1
Education
High school
Some college
Bachelors
Graduate
11.0
24.5
27.5
37.0
22
49
55
74
The majority of the participants (70.5%) held jobs in the business area at for profit
organizations. The most common occupational category was Other (44.0%). Table 2
provides a visual perspective of the work-related characteristics of the participants.
48
Proportion (%)
Type of organization
For-profit
Nonprofit
Government
Other
70.5
13.5
10.0
6.0
141
27
20
12
Occupational category
Supervisor/manager
Clerical
Other
Missing
34.5
20.0
44.0
1.5
69
40
88
3
Employment status
Full-time
Part-time
Contractor
77.0
15.0
8.0
154
30
16
Current salary
$15,000-40,000
$45,000-70,000
$75,000-100,000
$105,000-130,000
$135,000-160,000
$165,000+
42.0
28.5
18.0
5.5
2.5
3.5
84
57
36
11
5
7
Present job
Business
Education
Physical/psychological healthcare
Science, engineering, & info. technology
Other
Missing
63.5
6.0
17.0
10.0
3.0
0.5
127
12
34
20
6
1
Both the demographic and work-related data showed that the sample was diverse.
However, the majority of the participants were women, White, married, with no children
49
under the age of 18, held graduate-level degrees, were full-time employees, presently
working in jobs, in business area, at for profit organizations, and occupational category,
other. Appendix B provides a graphical interpretation of the data contained in Tables 1
and 2.
Hypothesis
df
Error df
Significance
Gender
.997
.066
3.000
187.000
.919
Race
.922
1.022
15.000
516.626
.430
Marital status
320.000
.000
467.925
.008
Occupational category
368.000
.030
442.091
.002
453.034
.099
459.984
.002
153.513
.000
Ho long (field)
153.758
.000
Independent variable
51
Research Question 1
Table 4 summarizes the average scores of the major five satisfaction dimensions
across different levels of demographics. As expected, all responses changed across the
demographic categories. However, not all variations were significant (many of these can
be attributed to random fluctuations). To identify which demographic variables
significantly impacted the satisfaction dimensions, several MANOVA analyses, reporting
Wilkss Lambda, and Hotelling trace and corresponding F-test p values were performed.
Once the significant demographic variables were identified, tables and graphs were
generated to give a better understanding of the nature and direction of the impact.
Table 4. Means
Variable
Overall
Extrinsic Intrinsic
Job
satisfaction
factor
factor satisfaction
Worklife
balance
Age
1825
2635
3645
4655
56+
4.13
3.95
3.84
3.83
3.99
4.09
3.90
3.78
3.85
3.74
4.26
4.04
3.93
3.83
4.13
4.33
4.00
3.89
3.89
4.00
3.96
3.92
3.90
3.90
4.25
Gender
Male
Female
4.02
3.92
3.96
3.87
4.13
4.00
4.13
3.99
3.95
3.94
Race
White
Black
Hispanic
Asian
Other
N/A
3.94
3.88
4.15
4.08
3.60
4.15
3.89
3.78
4.14
4.02
3.63
4.58
3.96
4.01
4.26
4.20
3.73
4.17
4.00
3.84
4.12
3.90
3.60
3.83
52
4.01
3.98
4.24
4.21
3.66
4.07
Variable
Overall
Extrinsic Intrinsic
Job
satisfaction
factor
factor satisfaction
Education
High school
College
Bachelors
Graduate
4.16
4.11
3.92
3.81
4.16
4.06
3.88
3.73
Marital status
Married
With partner
No partner
3.99
3.99
3.89
3.92
3.92
3.87
Children at home
0
1
2
3 or more
4.01
3.83
3.98
3.83
3.94
3.82
3.95
3.75
Organization type
Profit
Nonprofit
Government
Other
3.96
3.98
3.93
3.83
3.92
3.91
3.76
3.88
Employment status
Full-time
Part-time
Contractor
3.99
3.92
3.70
Salary ($1,000)
$1540
$4570
$75100
$105130
$135160
$165+
3.90
3.93
4.04
4.17
4.16
3.89
4.27
4.23
4.03
3.86
Worklife
balance
4.33
4.30
4.01
3.79
3.97
3.98
3.86
3.97
4.05
4.18
3.97
4.04
3.90
3.85
4.09
3.97
3.99
3.84
3.98
3.78
4.12
3.80
4.06
4.09
4.00
3.76
4.05
4.12
3.98
3.72
3.88
3.96
4.20
4.25
3.95
3.81
3.64
4.08
4.02
3.73
4.04
4.07
3.92
3.97
3.94
3.71
3.89
3.86
3.97
4.17
4.17
3.43
3.97
4.04
4.15
4.17
4.17
4.06
3.94
4.04
4.23
4.06
4.27
3.95
3.88
3.92
3.90
4.36
4.13
4.33
53
4.08
4.11
3.98
4.12
3.89
4.00
3.91
Variable
Overall
Extrinsic Intrinsic
Job
satisfaction
factor
factor satisfaction
Worklife
balance
3.85
4.15
4.20
4.15
4.22
3.79
4.11
4.18
4.03
4.28
3.92
4.25
4.31
4.37
4.29
3.90
4.30
4.30
4.33
4.33
3.88
4.05
4.17
3.87
4.11
3.94
3.94
4.16
3.75
3.96
3.90
3.90
4.09
3.71
3.84
4.04
4.03
4.27
3.81
4.01
4.07
4.00
4.24
3.74
3.96
3.87
3.95
4.12
3.83
4.15
employees (age 1835) tend to have a higher satisfaction extrinsic scale than older
employees (age 36 and older). High school graduates and individuals with some college
tend to have a higher satisfaction extrinsic scale than those who held bachelors and
graduate degrees. Full-time employees tend to have a higher satisfaction extrinsic scale
than part-time and contract employees. The results are shown in Table 5.
Demographics and Intrinsic Factors
The MANOVA analysis in Table 6 shows that race, education, employment
status, and salary were the only demographic variables that had a significant impact on
intrinsic factors. Hispanic Americans and Asian Americans had a higher intrinsic scale
than White and Black employees. High school graduates and individuals with some
college had a higher intrinsic scale than those who held bachelors and graduate degrees.
Full-time employees had a higher intrinsic scale than part-time and contract employees.
Intrinsic factors tend to increase with the rise in salary up to a certain level ($160,000).
Demographics and Job Satisfaction
The MANOVA analysis in Table 7 shows that age, organizational type, and
employment status were the only demographic variables that had a significant impact on
job satisfaction. Young employees (age 1835) had higher job satisfaction than middleaged employees (age 2655). Job satisfaction was higher for employees 65 and older.
High school graduates and individuals with some college had higher job satisfaction than
employees who held bachelors and graduate degrees. Full-time and part-time employees
were more satisfied as compared to contract employees. Job satisfaction was higher in
nonprofit organizations and lower in government agencies.
55
Wilkss
Hotelling
Conclusion
Independent variable Lambda p value
trace
p value at 5% level
Extrinsic
factor
Age
Gender
Race
Education
Marital status
Children at home
Organization type
Employment status
Salary
Job tenure
Occupation tenure
0.818
0.988
0.811
0.809
0.899
0.913
0.887
0.836
0.784
0.876
0.869
0.0283
0.8757
0.0976
0.0015
0.0554
0.4809
0.1814
0.0005
0.0255
0.3685
0.2993
0.213
0.013
0.216
0.227
0.110
0.093
0.124
0.192
0.254
0.137
0.144
Age (yrs.)
1825
2635
3645
4655
56+
Extrinsic factor
4.09
3.90
3.78
3.85
3.74
Education
High school
Extrinsic factor
4.16
College Bachelors
4.06
0.0233
0.8757
0.0997
0.0011
0.0548
0.4753
0.1763
0.0004
0.0245
0.3609
0.2983
significant
significant
significant
significant
Graduate
3.88
3.73
Employment status
Full-time
Part-time
Contractor
Extrinsic factor
3.95
3.81
3.64
Salary ($1,000)
$1540
$4570
$75100
$105130
$135160
$165+
Extrinsic factor
3.89
3.86
3.97
4.17
4.17
3.43
56
Wilkss
Hotelling
Conclusion
Independent variable Lambda p value
trace
p value at 5% level
Intrinsic
factor
Age
Gender
Race
Education
Marital status
Children at home
Organization type
Employment status
Salary
Job tenure
Occupation tenure
Race
Intrinsic factor
0.829
0.979
0.762
0.842
0.923
0.914
0.846
0.813
0.757
0.875
0.868
White Black
4.01
High school
Intrinsic factor
4.27
0.197
0.022
0.284
0.180
0.082
0.091
0.174
0.219
0.294
0.137
0.146
Hispanic Asian
3.98
Education
0.1400
0.7626
0.0309
0.0440
0.3381
0.6899
0.0551
0.0002
0.0228
0.5870
0.4966
4.24
4.21
College Bachelors
4.23
0.1262
0.7626
0.0293
0.0403
0.3386
0.6951
0.0524
0.0002
0.0203
0.5869
0.4985
Other
N/A
3.66
4.07
significant
significant
significant
significant
Graduate
4.03
3.86
Employment status
Full-time
Part-time
Contractor
Intrinsic factor
4.08
4.02
3.73
Salary ($1,000)
$1540
$4570
$75100
$105130
$135160
$165+
Intrinsic factor
3.97
4.04
4.15
4.17
4.17
4.06
57
Independent
variable
Job
satisfaction
Age
Gender
Race
Education
Marital status
Children at home
Organization type
Employment status
Salary
Job tenure
Occupation tenure
Wilkss
Hotelling
Conclusion
Lambda p value
trace
p value at 5% level
0.860
0.991
0.883
0.857
0.965
0.980
0.908
0.919
0.893
0.933
0.912
0.0033
0.6243
0.0623
0.0004
0.3262
0.9139
0.0265
0.0112
0.1095
0.3287
0.1177
0.159
0.009
0.130
0.166
0.036
0.020
0.101
0.087
0.117
0.071
0.095
Age (yrs.)
1825
2635
3645
4655
56+
Job satisfaction
4.33
4.00
3.89
3.89
4.00
Education
High school
Job satisfaction
4.33
College Bachelors
4.30
Full-time
Part-time
Contractor
Job satisfaction
4.04
4.07
3.92
Organization type
Profit
Job satisfaction
4.05
Graduate
4.01
Employment status
Nonprofit Government
4.12
3.98
58
0.0028
0.6243
0.0568
0.0003
0.3275
0.9154
0.0235
0.0106
0.1063
0.3305
0.1150
3.79
Other
3.72
significant
significant
significant
significant
Independent
variable
Overall
satisfaction
Age
Gender
Race
Education
Marital status
Children at home
Organization type
Employment status
Salary
Job tenure
Occupation tenure
Wilkss
Hotelling
Conclusion
Lambda p value
trace
p value at 5% level
0.588
0.923
0.444
0.659
0.799
0.740
0.580
0.655
0.462
0.740
0.672
Education
High school
Overall satisfaction
4.16
0.0754
0.7760
0.0008
0.0611
0.3809
0.6109
0.0006
0.0002
0.0029
0.9809
0.6675
0.588
0.083
0.898
0.468
0.239
0.321
0.612
0.474
0.864
0.316
0.425
College Bachelors
4.11
0.0572
0.7760
0.0007
0.0397
0.3795
0.6072
0.0005
0.0002
0.0019
0.9808
0.6570
significant
significant
significant
significant
significant
Graduate
3.92
3.81
Organization type
Profit
Nonprofit
Government
Other
Overall satisfaction
3.96
3.98
3.93
3.83
Employment status
Full-time
Part-time
Contractor
Overall satisfaction
4.04
4.07
3.92
Salary ($1,000)
$1540
$4570
$75100
$105130
$135160
$165+
Intrinsic factor
3.97
4.04
4.15
4.17
4.17
4.06
60
Wilkss
Hotelling
Conclusion
Independent variable Lambda p value
trace
p value at 5% level
Worklife
balance
Age
Gender
Race
Education
Marital status
Children at home
Organization type
Employment status
Salary
Job tenure
Occupation tenure
0.841
0.987
0.851
0.904
0.935
0.947
0.904
0.970
0.826
0.948
0.877
0.0007
0.4518
0.0080
0.0192
0.0407
0.3024
0.0195
0.4209
0.0012
0.5875
0.0124
0.185
0.013
0.167
0.106
0.069
0.055
0.106
0.031
0.204
0.054
0.138
0.0005
0.4518
0.0080
0.0167
0.0388
0.3078
0.0165
0.4192
0.0009
0.5898
0.0105
Age (yrs.)
1825
2635
3645
4655
56+
Worklife balance
3.96
3.92
3.90
3.90
4.28
Hispanic Asian
Other
N/A
3.60
3.83
Race
Worklife balance
White Black
4.00
3.84
4.12
3.90
High
Education
school
Worklife balance
3.97
Marital status
Worklife balance
College Bachelors
3.98
3.86
3.90
61
Graduate
3.97
No partner
3.85
significant
significant
significant
significant
significant
significant
significant
Profit
Worklife balance
3.88
Nonprofit Government
3.96
4.20
Other
4.25
Salary ($1,000)
$1540
$4570
$75100
$105
130
Worklife balance
3.88
3.92
3.90
4.36
05
610
1115
1620
21+
Worklife balance
3.87
3.95
4.12
3.83
4.15
$135
160
$165+
4.13
4.33
Research Question 2
Table 10 shows the MANOVA results for the relationship between job
satisfaction questions and extrinsic and extrinsic factors. A * beside Wilkss Lambda 0.65
for Q5 suggests that the average responses for Q13, Q16, and Q20 changed significantly
(at 5% level) as the response for Q5 changed from very dissatisfied to very satisfied. In
statistical terms, a * beside a Wilkss Lambda or Hotelling trace meant the p value for the
corresponding approximate F test is < 0.05; so there was sufficient evidence to believe
that the average response to dependent variables changed across the different levels of the
independent variables. However, this did not indicate the direction of change (e.g., the
researcher cannot say that the average job satisfaction score increases as the scores for
62
extrinsic and intrinsic factors increase). To establish a positive association between the
extrinsic factor and job satisfaction the correlation between the variables were analyzed.
Dependent variable
Job satisfaction (Q13,
Q16, Q20)
Independent
variable
Hotelling trace
Extrinsic factor
Q5
Q6
Q8
Q12
Q17
Q18
0.582*
0.514*
0.619*
0.470*
0.538*
0.569*
0.670*
0.880*
0.596*
1.072*
0.833*
0.706*
Intrinsic factor
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q11
Q14
Q15
Q19
0.657*
0.671*
0.567*
0.345*
0.368*
0.231*
0.403*
0.495*
0.477*
0.742*
1.755*
1.609*
3.140*
1.419*
*Significant statistical evidence at 5% level that the multivariate response for job satisfaction changed on
average as the response for the particular question measuring the independent variable change.
Table 11 shows the correlations r between the responses to each question for
extrinsic factor and each question for job satisfaction. All correlations were positive,
which suggested a positive association between extrinsic factors and job satisfaction. A t
test for each pair of questions in the independent and the dependent variableHO: r = 0
versus H1: r > 0. A small p value (< 0.05) for this test indicated that there was a
significant, positive correlation between the two variables. A p value < 0.05 for a
particular test was indicated by a * beside the outcome of the corresponding cell. The
63
table shows that the p value is < 0.05 for each pair of questions, which means the
response to every single question in extrinsic and intrinsic factors has a significant,
positive correlation with the response to every single question for job satisfaction.
Q13
Q16
Q20
Extrinsic factor
Q5
Q6
Q8
Q12
Q17
Q18
0.296*
0.560*
0.558*
0.620*
0.618*
0.328*
0.480*
0.493*
0.298*
0.528*
0.524*
0.447*
0.385*
0.596*
0.453*
0.605*
0.519*
0.234*
Intrinsic factor
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q11
Q14
Q15
Q19
0.506*
0.427*
0.418*
0.605*
0.716*
0.580*
0.598*
0.356*
0.476*
0.511*
0.541*
0.592*
0.830*
0.556*
0.474*
0.485*
0.597*
0.770*
0.627*
0.656*
0.702*
t value
Pr (> |t|)
p value
R2
0.576
5.461
5.125
4.094
2.537
0.672
0.313
0.565
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.012
0.502
0.755
57.99
0.6432
0.366
8.671
5.166
4.027
3.473
2.935
1.398
0.202
0.714
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.001
0.004
0.164
0.840
133.07
0.8291
The standardized coefficients for Q12, Q17, Q6, and Q8 (all the independent
variables with significant coefficients [Pr (> |t|) < 0.05] in the regression model) were
positive. For example, all the extrinsic factors contribute positively towards job
satisfaction. The standardized coefficients for Q5 are negative, but this is not significant
(Pr [> |t|] = 0.755 >> 0.05), which means Q5 had no additional significant impact on job
satisfaction over Q12, Q17, Q6, and Q8. The small p values and the large F statistics in
the fourth and fifth columns of Table 12 suggested that there was a significant linear
relationship between average job satisfaction and extrinsic and intrinsic factors. Positive
values for the significant standardized coefficients suggested that the overall relationship
65
was a positive linear (e.g., extrinsic and intrinsic factors contributed significantly to
improved levels of job satisfaction).
The figures that follow clearly showed that the average job satisfaction score
increased with an increase in average scores of extrinsic and intrinsic factors. This means
that employees who were more satisfied with hygiene and motivation factors tend to have
higher job satisfaction.
66
Research Question 3
To establish a positive association between extrinsic and intrinsic factors, job
satisfaction, and worklife balance a MANOVA between the variables was performed.
The results are summarized in Table 13. A * suggested that significant statistical
evidence at the 5% level that the multivariate response for job satisfaction changed on
average as the response for the particular question measuring the independent variable
changed. For example, a * beside Wilkss Lambda 0.438 for Q5 suggested that the
67
average responses for Q13, Q16, and Q20 changed significantly (at the 5% level) as the
response for Q5 changed from very dissatisfied to very satisfied. In statistical terms, a *
beside a Wilkss Lambda or Hotelling trace meant the p value for the corresponding
approximate F test was < 0.05, so there was sufficient evidence to believe that the
average response to dependent variables changed across the different levels of the
independent variable. However, this did not indicate the direction of change (e.g., the
researcher cannot say that the average worklife balance score increased as the scores for
extrinsic and intrinsic factors increased).
Dependent variable
Worklife balance
(Q4, Q7, Q9)
Independent
variable
Hotelling trace
Extrinsic factor
Q5
Q6
Q8
Q12
Q17
Q18
0.438*
0.537*
0.727*
0.587*
0.709*
0.608*
1.022*
0.797*
0.359*
0.640*
0.402*
0.555*
Intrinsic factor
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q11
Q14
Q15
Q19
0.730*
0.732*
0.422*
0.478*
0.588*
0.584*
0.611*
0.346*
0.354*
1.240*
1.034*
0.655*
0.648*
0.581*
Job satisfaction
Q13
Q16
Q20
0.650*
0.606*
0.524*
0.502*
0.605*
0.844*
68
Table 14 shows the correlations r between the responses to each question for
extrinsic and intrinsic factors and job satisfaction and each question for worklife
balance. As was seen, all correlations were positive, which suggested a positive
association between extrinsic and intrinsic factors and job satisfaction and each question
or worklife balance.
Q4
Q7
Q9
Extrinsic factor
Q5
Q6
Q8
Q12
Q17
Q18
0.294*
0.319*
0.391*
0.384*
0.544*
0.412*
0.431*
0.463*
0.216*
0.502*
0.336*
0.546*
0.162*
0.200*
0.438*
0.230*
0.499*
0.333*
Intrinsic factor
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q11
Q14
Q15
Q19
0.591*
0.519*
0.508*
0.413*
0.391*
0.399*
0.279*
0.529*
0.595*
0.404*
0.460*
0.381*
0.503*
0.419*
0.491*
0.347*
0.395*
0.290*
0.288*
0.211*
0.176*
Satisfaction
Q13
Q16
Q20
0.297*
0.496*
0.454*
0.441*
0.405*
0.559*
0.080*
0.405*
0.318*
69
The researcher carried out the following t test for each pair of questions in the
independent and dependent variableHO: r = 0 versus H1: r > 0. A small p value (<
0.05) for the test shows there was a significant positive correlation between the
independent and dependent variables. A p value < 0.05 for a particular test was indicated
by a * beside the outcome of the corresponding cell. The table shows that the p value was
< 0.05 for all but one pair of questions (Q13Q9), which meant the response to most of
the questions in extrinsic and intrinsic factors and job satisfaction had a significant,
positive correlation with the response to the questions for worklife balance.
T Value
Standardized coefficients for the independent variables (e.g., if the regression
equation is average worklife balance = constant + A * Q12 + B * Q17 + * Q6 + D * Q8
+ E * Q5 + F * Q18, then the standardized value of A is 1.773, suggesting there was a
positive association between Q12 and average worklife balance. Pr (> |t|): This lists the
p values for the tests A = 0, B = 0, and so on. A p value < 0.05 meant that there was
sufficient evidence at the 5% level to believe that the corresponding coefficient was nonzero (e.g., p value for Q18 is 0.023 suggesting that the average worklife balance
changed significantly as the response to Q18 changed from 1 to 5. The value of the F
statistic for the test H0: There was no significant linear relation between worklife
balance and the extrinsic and intrinsic factors and job satisfaction questions. A high value
of F indicated that the H0 did not hold, (e.g., there was a significant linear relationship).
A small p value (< 0.05) meant the HO did not hold.
The R2 measured the proportion of variation in worklife balance scales explained
by the variation in the extrinsic and intrinsic factors and job satisfaction. The higher this
70
value the stronger the association between worklife balance and extrinsic and intrinsic
factors and job satisfaction.
Table 15 summarizes the findings of multiple linear regressions of average work
life balance response on the responses for extrinsic and intrinsic factors and job
satisfaction. In the table, it can be seen that the standardized coefficients for Q16 and Q20
(the independent variables with significant (Pr [> |t| > 0.05]) in the regression model)
were all positive. All of these extrinsic factors contribute positively towards worklife
balance. The standardized coefficient for Q13 is negative, but this was not significant (Pr
[> |t|] = 0.189 >> 0.05), which meant Q13 had no significant additional impact on job
satisfaction over Q6 and Q20. Similar explanations hold for other tables.
The p values and the F statistics in the fourth and fifth columns of the table
suggested that there was a significant linear relationship between average worklife
balance and extrinsic and intrinsic factors and job satisfaction. Positive values for the
significant standardized coefficients suggested the overall relationship was a positive
linear (e.g., extrinsic and intrinsic factors and job satisfaction significantly contributed to
improved levels of worklife balance).
The figures that follow clearly showed that the average worklife balance scale
increased with an increase in the average scale for extrinsic and extrinsic factors and job
satisfaction. This meant that employees who were more satisfied with hygiene,
motivation factors and job satisfaction tended to have improved worklife balance.
71
t value
Pr (> |t|)
p value
R2
5.374
4.915
2.377
2.298
1.773
1.136
0.010
0.000
0.000
0.018
0.023
0.078
0.257
0.992
26.91
0.4555
6.295
6.229
2.555
2.012
0.650
0.588
0.283
0.066
0.000
0.000
0.011
0.046
0.517
0.557
0.777
0.948
33.59
0.5505
9.197
5.157
5.081
1.319
43.56
0.4000
72
0.000
0.000
0.000
0.189
73
74
variables have alpha > .70. Only worklife balance had an alpha = 0.6656, which is very
close to .70. This suggested that variables were internally consistent (e.g., all six different
questions for extrinsic factors measured a single underlying characteristic).
Cronbachs
No. observations
No. variables
Extrinsic factor
0.8248
200
Intrinsic factor
0.8804
200
Job satisfaction
0.8001
200
Overall satisfaction
0.9415
200
20
Worklife balance
0.6656
200
Table 17 reflects the descriptive statistics summary for the MSQ questions. N
represents the population; M is the arithmetic average of the scores, SD represents
standard deviation; min. is the minimum score obtained; max. is the maximum score
obtained.
Summary
The researcher surveyed 200 men and women from the private and public sectors
to determine the relationship between job satisfaction and worklife balance. The
researcher identified organizations that were successful in employing alternative
workplace strategies and jobs that were best suited for these work options.
76
Min.
Q1
Mdn
Q3
Max.
SD
4.210
4.00
5.00
0.938
4.295
4.00
5.00
0.861
4.020
4.00
5.00
1.089
3.560
3.00
4.00
1.045
3.625
3.00
4.00
0.990
3.870
3.00
5.00
1.058
4.475
4.00
5.00
0.856
4.130
4.00
5.00
1.072
3.795
3.00
5.00
0.994
10
3.430
3.00
4.00
0.848
11
4.225
4.00
5.00
1.082
12
3.700
3.00
4.00
1.047
13
3.795
3.00
5.00
1.245
14
3.560
3.00
4.00
1.222
15
4.095
4.00
5.00
0.959
16
4.085
4.00
5.00
0.955
17
4.385
4.00
5.00
0.678
18
3.700
3.00
4.25
0.967
19
3.895
3.75
5.00
1.058
20
4.225
4.00
5.00
1.068
77
The study discussed advantages and disadvantages for both employees and
employers, and factors that determined job satisfaction and worklife balance. The MSQ
and a demographic questionnaire were the instruments used to collect data from the
respondents. FreeOnlineSurveys.com, an online provider, enabled the researcher to create
and produce cost and time efficient surveys. The questionnaire measured intrinsic
motivators such as achievement and recognition and extrinsic motivators such as salary
and job security. Appendix D explains which questions were used to measure the intrinsic
and extrinsic factors. The data were analyzed using SPSS Statistical Software for
Windows and Microsoft Excel. The analysis included a MANOVA, using the MSQs
three scales as the dependent variables. Wilkss Lambda assessed the multivariate
significance. The data showed significant multivariate effect on marital status, education,
number of children interaction and job tenure. Based on the results, age, race, education,
marital status, organizational type and salary were positively correlated to job satisfaction
and worklife balance. The results showed that younger employees between the ages 18
to 35 showed a higher level of satisfaction and worklife balance on the extrinsic scale as
compared to older employees. The data showed that full-time employees, high school
graduates, and individuals who had some college were more satisfied than individuals
who held bachelors and graduate degrees. Part-time and those who held graduate
degrees had a lower satisfaction rate. Job satisfaction is also higher for older employees
(65 and older). The research indicated that job satisfaction is higher in nonprofit
organizations and lower in government agencies. Hispanic Americans and Asian
Americans scored higher than White and Black employees. Higher salaries also increased
satisfaction.
78
79
Summary
The aim of this research was threefold. First, the study examined the relationship
between flexible work arrangement programs, job satisfaction, and worklife balance.
Second, it identified jobs that were best suited for these strategies and identified a number
of companies who were successful in using these strategies. Third, the study discussed
the advantages and disadvantages of flexible work arrangement options for both
employees and employers.
Today, many companies recognize their employees as their most valued asset.
This has led to increased awareness of job satisfaction and worklife balance. Employee
relations are changing in the 21st century. Managers have become aware of a variety of
programs they can implement to help increase overall job satisfaction and improve
overall worklife balance. Companies are taking a long-term view of this issue, knowing
that if they are able to get it right, it will result in employee loyalty and increased profits
for their businesses. The dynamics of todays organizations have changed because of the
increase in information technology and the rapid pace of communication. As a result,
companies must evaluate and improve their management strategies in order to meet the
challenges of the times and globalization.
80
81
Race, education, employment status, and salary were the only demographic
variables that had a significant impact on intrinsic factors. Hispanic Americans and Asian
Americans had a higher intrinsic scale than White and Black employees. High school
graduates and individuals with some college had a higher intrinsic scale than those who
held bachelors and graduate degrees. Full-time employees had a higher intrinsic scale
than part-time and contract employees. Intrinsic factors tend to increase with the rise in
salary up to a certain level ($160,000).
Age, organizational type, and employment status were the only demographic
variables that had a significant impact on job satisfaction. Young employees (age 1835)
had higher job satisfaction than middle-aged employees (age 2655). Job satisfaction was
higher for employees 65 and older than other age groups. High school graduates and
individuals with some college had higher job satisfaction than employees who held
bachelors and graduate degrees. Full-time and part-time employees were more satisfied
as compared to contract employees. Job satisfaction was higher in nonprofit organizations
and lower in government agencies.
In the overall satisfaction category race, education, organizational type, employee
status, and salary had a significant impact on overall satisfaction. Hispanic Americans
and Asian Americans had higher overall satisfaction than White and Black employees.
High school graduates and individuals with some college had higher overall satisfaction
than employees who held bachelors and graduate degrees. Job satisfaction was higher in
nonprofit organizations and lower in government agencies. Full-time employees were
more satisfied than contract employees. Overall satisfaction improved with a rise in
salary up to a certain point ($160,000).
82
organizations the leadership is valued for their skills pertaining to relational capital.
Conversely, in for-profit organizations, the leadership is more valued for their financial
performance. In nonprofit organizations, the leadership is low profile and collaborative
facilitative style and keeps a low profile. Leadership is high profile and strongly
competitive in for-profit organizations. The studys results also suggested that nonprofit
organizations do a better job than for-profit organization of making their staff feel that
their contributions are valued and meaningful (Blizzard, 2002). Similarly, Kennedy
(2010) reported employees make a choice when they choose to work for a nonprofit
organization. The employees choose to work for a mission rather than for profit. Business
works for a mission, but the demand to make a profit overshadows the business.
Second, the mission of the organization itself impacts employee satisfaction. In
the same study mentioned above, for example, there was a difference in responses
between employees of nonprofit and for-profit organizations on the following statement,
The mission or purpose of my organization makes me feel my job is important.
According to Blizzard (2002), this has to do with financial pressures that have forced all
organizations to focus on costs and operating efficiency that blurs the line between
money and mission. However, he also concluded that above this financial motive
nonprofit employees strongly believe their organizations mission makes them feel their
jobs are important.
In another study that examined the job satisfaction of female executive directors
of nonprofit organizations, relational factors were found to be linked to job satisfaction.
The study found that female executive directors of nonprofit organizations valued
colleagues who shared their goals more than colleagues they had congenial relationships.
84
In other words, relational practices were also important in this study, and a mechanism to
understand why job satisfaction is increased when working with colleagues who share the
same goals (Beale, Thompson, Hollenshead, Kaufmann, & Gibbs, 2008).
Recent research data showed that satisfaction is highest among the most and least
educated workers. An explanation for this could be that highly educated individuals
acquired their job based on their credentials, whereas less educated individuals moved up
the corporate ladder. There is a high correlation between job satisfaction and those who
considered themselves to be underemployed in relation to their education and skill set.
For those with the least education, they may not expect to have a better job in relation to
their education and skills. Therefore, less educated workers may not expect to have a
better job, and report more satisfaction. Additionally, there is the possibility for less
educated workers to be highly sensitive to criticizing their employers when their job may
be critical for their survival (Krahn & Lowe, 2002).
Research Question 2: Is job satisfaction and dissatisfaction related to motivator and
hygiene factors?
The correlations between the variables were analyzed to establish a positive
association between the extrinsic factors and job satisfaction. All correlations were
positive, which suggested a positive association between extrinsic factors and job
satisfaction.
The researcher performed a multiple linear regression with average job
satisfaction response as the dependent variable and extrinsic and intrinsic factor questions
as the independent variable. This allowed the researcher to get a better understanding of
the nature of the relationship between extrinsic and intrinsic factors. The p values and F
85
statistics suggested that there was a significant linear relationship between average job
satisfaction and extrinsic and intrinsic factors. Positive values for the significant
standardized coefficients suggested that the overall relationship was a positive linear
(e.g., extrinsic and intrinsic factors contributed significantly to improved levels of job
satisfaction). These findings conclusively suggested that as the extrinsic and intrinsic
factors improved, job satisfaction significantly improved.
Research Question 3: Is there a relationship between extrinsic and intrinsic factors and
worklife balance?
To establish a positive association between extrinsic and intrinsic factors, job
satisfaction, and worklife balance the correlation between the variables were analyzed.
All correlations were positive, which suggested a positive association between
satisfaction scores (extrinsic, intrinsic, and overall) and worklife balance scores.
Moreover, all but one pair of questions had a significant, positive correlation (p value <
5%), which meant the response for most of the questions in extrinsic and intrinsic factors
and job satisfaction had a significant, positive correlation with the response to the
questions for worklife balance. The p values and F statistics suggested that a significant
linear relationship exists between average worklife balance, and extrinsic and intrinsic
factors and job satisfaction. Positive values for the significant standardized coefficients
suggested the overall relationship was a positive linear. This conclusively shows that
extrinsic and intrinsic factors and job satisfaction significantly contributed to improved
levels of worklife balance.
The R2 measured the proportion of variation in worklife balance scales explained
by the variation in the extrinsic and intrinsic factors and job satisfaction. The higher this
86
value the stronger the association between worklife balance and extrinsic and intrinsic
factors and job satisfaction.
The standardized coefficients for Q16 and Q20 (the independent variables with
significant [Pr (> |t| > 0.05)] in the regression model) were all positive. All of these
extrinsic factors contribute positively towards worklife balance. The standardized
coefficient for Q13 was negative, but this was not significant (Pr [> |t|] = 0.189 >> 0.05).
This meant that Q13 had no significant additional impact on job satisfaction over Q6 and
Q20. The p values and F statistic suggested that a significant linear relationship exists
between average worklife balance, and extrinsic and intrinsic factors and job
satisfaction. Positive values for the significant standardized coefficients suggested the
overall relationship was a positive linear (e.g., extrinsic and intrinsic factors and job
satisfaction significantly contributed to improved levels of worklife balance).
Worklife balance is essential for each workers physical and psychological well
being. The problem for employees is their struggle with making a living or working at a
career while trying to find time for family, friends, leisure and other interests. Job stress
can lead to familial problems, substance abuse, psychological and physical disorders and
alienation from friends and others.
This is a concern for women, since they are expected to care for family members,
in addition to their paid employment. Women often perform more of the caring labor
inside and outside of work than others. Ensuring life work balance for women also
ensures that those she cares for (e.g., children, the elderly, or others) are taken care of
properly.
87
88
increased motivation among employees. In the end, Herzbergs study indicated that the
real motivation is inherent within the individual (Aamodt, 2010).
Increasingly job flexibility has become significant to employee satisfaction. Very
often, companies offer flexible work arrangement options such as flextime, part time
work, job sharing, telecommuting and compressed work week. This has allowed
companies to attract and retain better employees. Flexible work arrangements fit the
lifestyle of many of todays employees (parents, single mothers and others who want to
work from home). These arrangements have helped companies boost employee morale
and meet the changing needs of the workforce. Increases in such arrangements may have
stemmed from aging employees, those who must care for ailing family members, and the
growing need to meet family obligations. This is especially true for individuals who want
to maintain an active lifestyle with their children. Advancements in technology and
telecommunication technologies allow employees to spend fewer hours in the office and
have contributed significantly to decreased absenteeism, and other benefits such as stress
reduction and job satisfaction. Compressed work week has proven to be cost effective for
companies as turnover shifts are reduced and has given employers a recruiting advantage.
For the employees, it saves costs by savings on daily commutes and increase time for the
family and personal interests. Work sharing has increased employee loyalty and prevents
high turnovers and benefits cost. It is one of the most popular flexible work arrangements
because it allows shared responsibility. Flextime allows employees to choose the number
of hours they work, so that they are able to better manage their time. This option has been
beneficial for employers in their recruitment and retention efforts (George & Jones,
2007).
90
Experts such as Creswell (2006) and Simon (2006) have the same opinion that
research studies have limitations based on the nature of the designed and how the study is
implemented. These experts also agree that it is essential for researchers to acknowledge
their limitations. This study was constrained by several limitations.
1. Snowball sampling can result in biases.
2. The findings of this study cannot be generalized beyond the sample of this
study.
3. The data used in the study rely on one method of data collection, selfreporting. These data can be distorted by faulty memory, perception, and other
biases. Additionally, self-administered surveys prevent the researcher from
asking questions to gain insight into the participants perceptions, and they are
also unable to elaborate on responses or provide clarification where needed.
Conclusions
The use of the MSQ and Herzbergs two-factor motivation was extremely
relevant to this study. The reliability and validity of the MSQ has been established
through the finding of van Saane et al. (2003). However, the use of Herzbergs theory as
the sole theory to measure job satisfaction is not appropriate. It is widely claimed by
scholars that Hertzbergs model is empirically difficult to prove. Others even argue that
Herzbergs methodology has stimulated much research. Since researchers have not been
able to reliably, empirically prove Herzbergs model, and with the workforce changes in
the 21st century, it is not advisable to use this model alone. The theory in itself does not
take into account individual differences. It also assumes that all employees will behave in
91
an identical manner to motivator and hygiene factors. It neither specifies how these two
factors will be measured. Job satisfaction is an attitude in which researchers should be
able to determine the emotions, behaviors and beliefs that account for overall satisfaction
or dissatisfaction. A more modern approach, core self-evaluation theory, could make
useful contributions to this research. The core self-evaluation theory determines job
satisfaction by measuring the individuals self esteem, locus of control, neuroticism and
general efficacy. Additionally, the theory can serve as a guide in determining individual
personalities that determine job satisfaction (Judge & Bono, 2001; H. M. Weiss, 2002).
The job characteristics model studies how job characteristics affect job satisfaction. This
model measures skill variety, autonomy, task significance, and feedback. These core
characteristics provide an empirical value by measuring the motivating potential for a
job, and can be used as a guide of how an individual characteristic will most likely affect
an employees behavior and attitude, including satisfaction (Hackman & Oldham, 1976).
The utilization of these theories will provide a holistic approach to measuring job
satisfaction.
Research Question 1 helped to identify the behaviors of different groups of
participants towards job satisfaction (extrinsic, intrinsic, and overall) and the level of
worklife balance. The question identified which groups were happier with their job (e.g.,
married, full-time employees, high school graduates) than other groups. From an
employers perspective, this knowledge could be useful to perform a deeper investigation
of the groups identified and try to improve their satisfaction levels by implementing
appropriate work programs, policies, and procedures.
92
Research Question 2 helped clarify Herzbergs theory on a wider and more varied
category of employees. Herzbergs sample population were from only engineers and
accountants whereas, the researchers sample population consists of individuals from
finance, healthcare, manufacturing, education and other areas. This analysis, then, is a
generalization of the previous theory, not a mere replication.
Research Question 3 helped establish a connection between employees
satisfaction and their worklife balance. This connection emphasized the importance of
improved work place environment, and healthy relationships among coworkers to
achieve better employee satisfaction. This is an important finding for organizations who
consider their employees their most important asset.
Recommendations
The sample population should have included employees who did not participate in
flexible work arrangement programs, and their level of satisfaction measured against
individuals who do use these work options. Those who do not use flexible work
arrangements should be questioned to determine whether participating in such programs
would increase their job satisfaction and worklife balance or not. They should also
identify the types of programs their companies have implemented. This would provide
insight into the general trend of this scheme. In addition, it would serve as a source of
measurement to determine which flexible work arrangement program is best suited for
employers and employees. The study did not include the standpoint of employers, which
would have provided insight into measuring those who participate in flexible work
arrangement programs, verses those who do not. The results of the study also do not
93
address what companies can do to increase satisfaction and worklife balance. Perhaps
this could have been addressed by adding additional items to the questionnaire.
Job satisfaction is inherently difficult to assess considering the varying job
responsibilities of the respondents. This is not addressed in the research. It is, therefore,
recommended that the survey questionnaire be revised to include the above requirements,
as well as, cross analysis of the same job types. This means that same job types will be
measured and compared accordingly. This will provide vital information for companies
so that they can accurately assess the same jobs within different companies.
Organizations should take steps to identify factors that motivate people and
develop and implement strategies aimed at improving worklife balance and job
satisfaction. These interventions should include working conditions that promote positive
interpersonal relationships employees, and other issues that are important to employees
within the organization. Provide and support professional development opportunities for
employees.
The studys results could be useful to managers when making decisions about
organizational change practices, management practices and organizational
communication.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
95
10.
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104
105
D. $105,000130,000
E. $135,000160,000
F. $165,000 and Over
107
Male
Female
White
Black
Hispanic
Asian
Other
Did Not Identify
108
Married
Unmarried/Partner
Unmarried/No
Partner
1
2
3
4
109
High School
Some College
Bachelor
Graduate
For Profit
Non-Profit
Government
Other
110
Occupational Category
Supervisor/Manager
Clerical
Other
Missing
Full-Time
Part-Time
Contractor
111
$15,000-$40,000
$45,000-$70,000
$75,000-$100,000
$105,000-$130,000
$135,000-$160,000
$165,000+
Business
Education
Physical/Psychological
Healthcare, Science,
Engineering, & Info. Technology
Other
Missing
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121
122