Abstract
Work-family balance is shrouded in conceptual ambiguity and WEIRD (western, educated, industrialized, rich, and democratic) understanding, which impedes scientific advancement and subsequent practical solutions. This qualitative study constructs a conceptual model of work-family balance among Qatari adults. Based on grounded theory methods, in-depth interview data from 20 Qatari adults (10 women and 10 men) indicated that work-family balance means meeting both work and family expectations. “Work” is driven primarily by family financial needs and therefore it must be undertaken for the sake of the family. However, work-family balance is an idealized goal; the demands of work, rising needs of the family, and insufficient supports make work-family balance impossible. Nevertheless, working adults actively pursue work-family balance through negotiation of expectations with role-related partners and adaptation to varying circumstances in work and family domains. Overall, the findings suggest that work-family balance is viewed by Qataris as a socially and relationally constructed concept.
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