Conflict or enrichment? A comprehensive review of workfamily balance

Dados Bibliográficos

ID21620168
AutoresYan Yan (0000-0001-5357-0187, Shanghai Dianji University School of Business, , Shanghai,), Xiaohan Zhang (0000-0002-9115-6507, Shanghai Dianji University School of Business, , Shanghai,), Chengxin Ye (Shanghai Dianji University School of Business, , Shanghai,), Jianyi Li (0000-0002-3520-2281, Guizhou Nursing Vocational College , Guiyang), Juan Gao (0000-0002-1754-021X, Shanghai Dianji University School of Business, , Shanghai,), Yanfei Geng (0000-0003-0472-3866, Shanghai Dianji University School of Business, , Shanghai,), Yuqing Geng (0009-0004-7871-7594, Shanghai Dianji University School of Business, , Shanghai)
Ano2026
Volume37
Fascículo1
Páginas221-251
Data de publicação2026-01-27
Peer ReviewedSim
Open AccessSim
TipoARTICLE
PeriódicoInternational Journal of Conflict Management (JOURNAL)
Identificadores do periódicoISSN: 1044-4068 • E-ISSN: 1758-8545
EditoraEmerald (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1108/ijcma-05-2025-0142
OpenAlexW4414718882
IdiomaEN
Referências citadas105

Purpose Work and family are two of life’s most significant aspects. Research on work-family balance (WFB) has been highly regarded, producing numerous findings. However, the research findings on this topic seem fragmented, and the theoretical foundation appears ambiguous. Therefore, this study aims to provide references for theory and practice by objectively analyzing the theoretical foundation, disciplinary backgrounds, research topics and future research directions of this field. Design/methodology/approach This study used bibliometric methods to analyze 1,466 articles on WFB from the Web of Science (WOS) core database published between 2000 and 2025. Findings The research findings suggest that role theory, boundary theory and conservation of resources (COR) theory are the core foundations of WFB. Social sciences, management and psychology are dominate disciplines, while environmental science and medicine are emerging disciplines. Originality/value This study has developed a knowledge framework for WFB and proposes future research directions. It provides an overview of the field and development prospects, serving as a reference for both theoretical research and management

Balance theory · Discipline · Web of science · Employment and Welfare Studies · Retirement, Disability, and Employment · Work-Family Balance Challenges