Gender and Work-Life Balance

The extensive body of literature on work-life balance reflects the ongoing sociological and psychological interest in how individuals navigate the intersection of work and personal responsibilities, as well as the boundaries between home and the workplace. It is, therefore, not surprising that the concept of work-life balance has been continuously examined, refined, and critiqued over time. Work-life balance has undergone significant theoretical shifts over the decades, moving from early work-family conflict models to contemporary neoliberal frameworks that emphasize individual responsibility over institutional support. This encyclopedia entry critically examines the gendered dimensions of work-life balance, highlighting how existing policies and workplace structures often reinforce traditional gender roles and exacerbate inequalities. Neoliberal labor market shifts, particularly in the care professions, have intensified job precarity and placed a disproportionate burden on women. The COVID-19 pandemic further intensified these disparities, as women faced increased unpaid labor and career disruptions. Through a feminist and intersectional lens, this entry explores the structural barriers embedded in work-life balance policies and discusses the need for systemic changes that redistribute caregiving responsibilities, promote equitable labor protections, and foster inclusive workplace cultures. Addressing these challenges requires a multidimensional approach, incorporating government policies, employer-driven reforms, and societal transformations towards gender equity in work and life. The Chapter will use the case study of work-life balance among nonprofit organizations’ employees, enabling a deep perspective on work-life balance as a gendered term.