An Actor-Partner Interdependence Model of Work Challenge Stressors and Work-Family Outcomes: the Moderating Roles of Dual-Career Couples’ Stress Mindsets

Abstract

Based on the work-home resources model and crossover theory, we examined how dual-career couples’ work challenge stressors impact each other’s ego depletion by collecting time-lagged and multi-source data on work challenge stressors, work-to-family conflict, distress, and ego depletion from both members of dual-career couples. We collected multi-wave data from 105 matched dual-career couples. Based on the work-home resources model and crossover theory, we hypothesized that the stress mindsets of both partners moderate the indirect relationships of work challenge stressors, work-to-family conflict, distress, and spousal ego depletion. APIM results support our hypotheses and have both research and practical implications.