How Effective Are Work-Life Balance Policies? The Importance of Inclusion

Abstract

In this manuscript we review research on the effectiveness of work-life balance (WLB) policies in improving employee and organizational outcomes. We find that while WLB policies are often implemented with good intentions, their effects are generally small or inconsistent. We identify eight barriers to policy inclusivity that we theorize are linked to reduced effectiveness—a narrow definition of family, focusing on work-family rather than work-nonwork balance, low policy awareness, the practical constraints of access, overlooking vulnerable workers, the nature of the job, supervisor attitudes and behaviors, and unsupportive organizational cultures—and make recommendations for addressing these barriers. We also highlight the importance of considering individual differences and cultural contexts when implementing WLB policies. We conclude by proposing future research directions, such as examining coworker support and the impact of national culture on policy effectiveness.