Developing a framework linking work-life balance, job demands, and organisational support in engineers' occupational stress

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between work-life balance and occupational stress among engineers in South Africa, with a focus on the mediating roles of perceived organisational support and job demands. Drawing on established theoretical models - including the Job Demands–Resources (JD–R) model, Organisational Support Theory (OST), and Role Theory (RT) - the research develops and assesses a conceptual framework using a quantitative, post-positivist approach. Data collected via a cross sectional survey from engineers across various disciplines, employing validated instruments for work-life balance, occupational stress, organisational support, and job demands. Descriptive and inferential analyses revealed that engineers experience moderate levels of work-life balance and occupational stress, low perceived organisational support, and high job demands. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) confirmed a significant direct negative relationship between work-life balance and occupational stress. However, neither perceived organisational support nor job demands significantly mediated this relationship. These findings suggest that while organisational support and job demands are important contextual factors, work-life balance independently influences stress levels among engineers. The study contributes a refined framework for understanding occupational stress in engineering contexts and offers practical recommendations for organisations. These include enhancing work-life balance through flexible scheduling, reducing excessive job demands, and improving organisational support structures. The research also highlights the need for sector-specific interventions and longitudinal studies to explore causal pathways further and improve engineer well-being in South Africa. The study aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3 and SDG 8), promoting healthier workplaces and economic growth through improved work-life integration.