The implications of work-family balance among dual-earner couples: The case of medical practitioners in Nigeria

Toyin Ajibade Adisa*, Ellis L.C. Osabutey, Gbolahan Gbadamosi

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

6 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Purpose: The implications of the work-family balance (WFB) of dual-earner couples are well known; however, the extant literature on this topic has failed to adequately explore the context of Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), specifically Nigeria. The purpose of this paper is to examine the implications of the WFB of dual-earner couples in Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach: This paper employs a qualitative methodology in order to explore the effect of couples’ dual-earner status on their WFB in an African context by using Nigerian medical practitioners as the empirical focus. Findings: The findings reveal that the dual-earner status provides some respite from financial hardship and improves family finances, which subsequently enhances WFB. However, the dual-earner status also has negative impacts on WFB in terms of work performance, dysfunctionality, and associated societal problems. Originality/value: This paper provides insights into the WFB of dual-earner couples in the non-western context of SSA, highlighting the previously unexplored implications of dual-earner status in the context of SSA.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)351-371
Number of pages21
JournalCareer Development International
Volume22
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2017
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Dual-earner couples
  • Nigeria
  • Role theory
  • Work-family balance

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