Psychosocial factors of work-life balance and resilience among Malaysian working women: A qualitative approach

Abstract

Regardless of cultural or geographical contexts, women worldwide often bear the primary responsibility for childcare and household management. For women pursuing careers, these responsibilities are amplified, creating a challenging dynamic as they strive to balance professional duties with domestic obligations. The onset of COVID-19 profoundly disrupted lives, with working women being particularly impacted. The pandemic necessitated a rapid transition to a "new normal," where remote work became the standard. This shift required women to juggle childcare, household chores, and professional tasks within the confines of the same physical space. Work-life balance refers to the equilibrium between personal, family, and professional responsibilities, while resilience is defined as an individual's capacity to cope with and recover from adversity. This paper examines the psychosocial factors contributing to work-life balance and resilience, which are vital for achieving a balanced and fulfilling life among working women in Malaysia. Data was collected through a qualitative approach using focus group discussions with eleven working women from diverse professional backgrounds, and the data was analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that the psychosocial factors affecting work-life balance and resilience are deeply interconnected. Three major themes emerged from the analysis: social support, individual factors, and spirituality. These factors enable working women to adapt, persevere, and thrive despite challenges, especially with the support of their families, including spouses and parents. This study underscores the critical role of psychosocial factors in enhancing work-life balance and resilience among working women, highlighting their importance in navigating the complexities of modern life.