Between Academia and Home: Work–Life Balance of Married Female University Teachers in Pakistan

Abstract

Despite the global expansion of female participation in the labor force, challenges persist in attaining work-life balance, particularly in patriarchal societies such as Pakistan. While existing studies have explored work-life balance, none have specifically examined Pakistani married female university teachers navigating dual responsibilities. This study aims to examine professional factors influencing the work-life balance of female university teachers, focusing on a family-friendly profession like teaching. Employing a quantitative approach, data were collected via stratified random sampling from university teachers ranging from lecturers to professors. Work-life balance was evaluated utilizing the Hayman questionnaire on a five-point Likert scale, supplemented by open-ended questions for demographic information and influential factors. Analysis, conducted using SPSS, included factor analysis and validation through Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests. Findings indicate a moderate levels of work-life balance among university teachers, with job flexibility emerging as a significant determinant. This study offers insights into the work-life balance of female educators and lays the groundwork for future studies, particularly in Asian contexts.

Keywords: Work-life balance, family-friendly profession, female teachers, professional factors