The Effect of Work-Family Conflict on Turnover Intention for White-Collar Workers: Examining the Mediating Role of Job Stress and Burnout

Abstract

White-collar workers are a large workforce group that has an impact on organizational performance, as they possess knowledge, skills, and educational backgrounds that are valuable resources for their organizations. The aim of this study is to examine the interplay between work-family conflict and turnover intentions, along with the mediating effects of job stress and burnout within that association. The study collected empirical data from 400 white-collar workers in private organizations in Thailand. The result supported the hypothesized model, where direct effect and indirect effect were tested. The findings of the structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis revealed an association between work-family conflict and turnover intentions, job stress, and burnout, respectively. What’s more, the results indicate that job stress and burnout were associated with turnover intentions. According to the mediation analysis results, job stress appeared to partially mediate the relationship between work-family conflict and turnover intentions. Correspondingly, burnout was found to partially mediate the relationship between work-family conflict and turnover intentions. The findings have theoretical implications which indicate that this framework also supports the majority of white-collar workers in most industries, not only in specific professions. This approach can be beneficial for retaining talented employees within an organization.