Background of the Study
Work-life balance (WLB) is a critical issue for employed mothers as they strive to balance their professional responsibilities with child-rearing and family care. The increasing participation of women in the workforce has brought significant economic and social benefits, but it has also created challenges in balancing work commitments and family well-being (International Labour Organization [ILO], 2024). Employed mothers often struggle with time constraints, work-related stress, and fatigue, which can negatively impact their children’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
In Niger State, where many women are engaged in formal and informal employment, the challenges of work-life balance are particularly pronounced. Many mothers work in sectors with demanding schedules, long working hours, and limited family-friendly policies. The absence of supportive workplace policies, such as flexible work arrangements and on-site childcare, further exacerbates the difficulty of maintaining a balance between work and family life (National Bureau of Statistics [NBS], 2023).
The impact of work-life balance on child well-being is a growing concern. Studies suggest that children of overworked parents may experience emotional distress, poor academic performance, and limited parental bonding (World Health Organization [WHO], 2024). Given the rising economic demands on families, employed mothers in Niger State may find it challenging to allocate sufficient time for childcare, nutrition, and emotional support. This study aims to assess the relationship between work-life balance among employed mothers and child well-being in Niger State.
Statement of the Problem
The increasing demands of employment and financial responsibilities have made it difficult for many mothers in Niger State to balance their work and family lives effectively. The challenge of work-life balance can lead to adverse outcomes for both mothers and their children, including increased maternal stress, inadequate child supervision, and reduced parent-child interaction.
Despite global discussions on family-friendly workplace policies, many organizations in Niger State do not provide adequate support systems such as paid maternity leave, flexible work schedules, or workplace childcare services. The absence of these policies forces many mothers to either sacrifice career growth or compromise their ability to provide quality care for their children. However, there is limited empirical research on how work-life balance affects child well-being in Niger State. This study seeks to fill this gap by examining the extent to which employed mothers can achieve work-life balance and how this balance influences the well-being of their children.
Objectives of the Study
To examine the extent of work-life balance among employed mothers in Niger State.
To analyze the impact of maternal work-life balance on child well-being in Niger State.
To explore workplace policies and their role in supporting work-life balance among mothers.
Research Questions
What is the level of work-life balance among employed mothers in Niger State?
How does work-life balance among employed mothers influence child well-being?
What workplace policies exist to support work-life balance for employed mothers in Niger State?
Research Hypotheses
Employed mothers with poor work-life balance experience higher stress levels and reduced child bonding.
Poor work-life balance among employed mothers negatively affects child well-being.
Organizations with family-friendly policies have higher work-life balance satisfaction among employed mothers.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on employed mothers in Niger State, examining their experiences with work-life balance and its effects on child well-being. Limitations may include difficulties in obtaining data from private organizations and subjective variations in perceptions of work-life balance.
Definitions of Terms
Work-life balance (WLB): The ability to effectively manage work responsibilities and personal life without significant conflict.
Child well-being: The overall health, emotional stability, and development of children.
Family-friendly workplace policies: Organizational policies designed to support employees in balancing work and family responsibilities, such as maternity leave and flexible working hours.
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