Achieving desired family size in dual-working households: Work and family influences among Singaporean couples.

Keywords

family formation, fertility, work–family interface, work–family spillover, workplace flexibility

Abstract

This study explores family formation–work fit (i.e., beliefs that work demands fit with desired family size) and its relation to achievement of desired family size, work–family facilitation and conflict, and marital satisfaction using a subsample (N = 690) drawn from the nationally representative Singapore National Study of Work–Life Harmony. Results indicate that family formation–work fit was positively related to desired family size achievement. Importantly, those with desired family size achievement had more than twice as many children as those who had not achieved their desired family size. In addition, workplace schedule flexibility, work-to-family facilitation, and marital satisfaction were associated with higher family formation–work fit, while family-to-work conflict and work-to-family conflict were associated with lower family formation–work fit. These findings indicate the importance of considering family formation–work fit when studying family fertility decisions, particularly in nations with low fertility rates.

Original Publication Citation

Galovan, A.M., Feistman, R.E., Stowe, J.D., & Hill, E.J. (2015). Achieving desired family size in dual-working households: Work and family influences among Singaporean couples. Journal of Family Issues. 36, 1377-1401. doi:10.1177/0192513X13516765

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2013-12-16

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/5114

Publisher

Journal of Family issues

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Family Life

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

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