Family–work role conflict from the perspectivae of day labour hours

The present research investigates the role conflict, from a psychosocial point of view.

The goal was to describe and compare a group of 263 male workers from Antofagasta,

with regular and extraordinary work shifts, from the mining companies of the zone,

in relation to the work – family conflict and other psychosocial matters.

Methodologicaly, the study used a quantitative strategy of a social survey recollection

system and a parametric contrast statistical procedures for the analysis. The

extraodinary shift group showed higher means than the regular shift group on the

work – family role conflict scale, and both groups were different on a number of

psychosocial variables, such as work involvement, psychological well–being, and

family satisfaction. As to the applicability of the research, the discussion is key for an explicit acceptance of the work – family role conflict, specially on the extraordinary shift male workers group. There is no agreement as to the connotations of stress, affecting both areas of performance. In the regular shift male workers, although as a group they present minor conflict levels, a need for appoaching general health care policies for them and their families is observed. An unsolved discussion arises which should contribute to future psychosocial interventions, since today it is not clear which instance is to assume family well–being matters, and how to implement role compatibility policies, specially when they are related to the worker’s familiar tasks and commitment.