Work-family conflict and social undermining behaviour: An examination of PO fit and gender differences

In this study, we develop and test a novel theoretical model that addresses the relationship between work-family conflict (WFC), sex, PO fit perceptions (PO fit) and social undermining behaviour. Drawing on the source attribution perspective and role theory, we hypothesize that WFC is positively associated with social undermining behaviour at a later point in time and this relationship is explained in part by diminished PO fit perceptions. Furthermore, we argue that female employees reporting high levels of WFC are more likely to engage in undermining behaviour relative to men when PO fit is considered as a mediating variable. Specifically, we assert that PO fit is depleted to a larger extent for female than for male workers and, subsequently, is associated with higher levels of undermining behaviour. In a sample of over 300 full-time working adults employed across a variety of occupations, we found support for each of our predictions. Implications for research and practice are addressed.