Investigating the Determinants of Work-life Balance (WLB): Insights from Generation Y Employees in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Aims: Previous studies show a significant attitudinal difference between Generation Y and others in the context of Work-Life Balance. The present study aimed at finding promising factors and the magnitude of them in affecting Work-Life Balance of Generation Y employees. Study Design: The study was a quantitative, cross-sectional inquiry of the determinants of Work-Life Balance which equipped an email survey (N = 213). Place and Duration of Study: The was primarily based on Kandy District of Sri Lanka. Approximately, the study stood for six months (February 2019 to August 2019). Methodology: Determinants of Work-Life Balance, namely; Flexibility & freedom, Motivation, Job satisfaction, Feedback & support and Technological adaption were tested for their influence over Work-Life Balance. The survey instrument had 32 items of which the responses were measured against a five-point Likert scale. A Google form of the instrument was e-mailed to respondents (85.2% response rate). Data was analyzed using univariate and multivariate techniques. Results: Results of multiple regression analysis detected Job satisfaction (β = .287; p < .001), Flexibility & freedom (β = .198; p < .001) and Feedback & support (β = .181; p < .001) as principal determinants of the Work-Life Balance of Generation Y employees. Technological adaption (p >.001) and Motivation (p > .001) found insignificant in affecting Work-Life Balance of Generation Y employees.  Conclusion: The study was theoretically profound as it refined determinants of Work-Life Balance determinants specific to Generation Y. Practically, findings are useful in crafting any action plan towards enhancing Work-Life Balance of Generation Y employees who are currently the most active group in the workforce.