Validation of the Work-Life Balance Culture Scale (WLBCS)

Work. 2014;49(1):133-42. doi: 10.3233/WOR-131643.

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this paper is to describe the theoretical development and initial validation of the newly developed Work-Life Balance Culture Scale (WLBCS), an instrument for measuring an organizational culture that promotes the work-life balance of employees.

Methods: In Study 1 (N=498), the scale was developed and its factorial validity tested through exploratory factor analyses. In Study 2 (N=513), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed to examine model fit and retest the dimensional structure of the instrument. To assess construct validity, a priori hypotheses were formulated and subsequently tested using correlation analyses.

Results: Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses revealed a one-factor model. Results of the bivariate correlation analyses may be interpreted as preliminary evidence of the scale's construct validity.

Conclusion: The five-item WLBCS is a new and efficient instrument with good overall quality. Its conciseness makes it particularly suitable for use in employee surveys to gain initial insight into a company's perceived work-life balance culture.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Factor Analysis, Statistical
  • Female
  • Germany
  • Humans
  • Job Satisfaction*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Occupational Health*
  • Organizational Culture*
  • Personal Satisfaction*
  • Quality of Life*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires*
  • Work / psychology*