Work-schedule instability and workers’ health and well-being across different socioeconomic strata in China

Abstract

Although there is a growing body of literature on the detrimental health effects of work-schedule instability in high-income countries (e.g., the U.S.), most studies have predominantly focused on low socioeconomic status (SES) groups, overlooking the variations in the health effects of schedule instability across different socioeconomic strata. We argue that China provides a unique and critical context for examining work-schedule instability due to its inadequate labor protections, extensive use of digital technology in the workplace, and a prevalent norm of overwork. Using the China General Social Survey 2021 and employing a more comprehensive measure of work-schedule instability, this study investigates (1) the associations between work-schedule instability and workers’ health and well-being, (2) the mediating mechanisms through a work intensification process and the work-family interface, and (3) how the associations vary across SES groups. The findings suggest that work-schedule instability is associated with worse job satisfaction and self-rated health. Higher work-family conflict and work pressure mediate around half of the association between schedule instability and job satisfaction. Additionally, the negative effects of schedule instability are significant across both low and high SES groups. This study contributes to the burgeoning literature on the adverse effects of schedule instability by underscoring its widespread impact across different socioeconomic strata.