Transformational leadership and work–life balance: A moderated mediation model

Drawing upon role balance theory and living systems theory, this paper aims to examine the effect of transformational leadership on satisfaction with work–life balance. We explore the mediating role of collective regulations (global team reflexivity) and the moderating role of individual regulations (self-consciousness). A cross-sectional study (involving 358 employees in French enterprises) showed that the relationship between transformational leadership and satisfaction with work–life balance involved an indirect effect through global team reflexivity. This mediation was moderated by self-consciousness. These results indicated that transformational leadership enhanced collective regulations and that collective regulations favored satisfaction with work–life balance. In addition, collective regulations compensated failure of individual regulations. This study confirms the interest of integrating leadership and regulation theories when studying the management of work–life balance. Organizations should promote transformational leadership and managers should pay attention to team reflexivity. These two factors may be effective both in the workplace and outside, by promoting satisfaction with work–life balance.