Introduction
The relationship between perceived overqualification and work-family conflict (WFC) is unclear because it can be either negative or positive. Our research proposes that the nature of this linkage depends on work-family centrality.
Purpose
Building on motivation-based approach to overqualification, we argue that, for employees who value work more than family, perceived overqualification is positively associated with strain-based WFC via heightened career anxiety. Yet, drawing on the capability-based approach to overqualification, we propose that, for employees who value family more than work, perceived overqualification is negatively related to time-based WFC via reduced work role overload.
Method & Results
Our hypotheses were supported across two studies (Study 1: a sample of 252 employees from a large Chinese banking group and their spouses; and Study 2: a time-lagged design with employees from various industries (N = 280). In Study 2, we also examined the alternative mediators (i.e., anger toward employment situation and depressive symptoms), re-tested our model with behavior-based WFC, and showed the construct validity of career anxiety.
Conclusions
These results suggest that managers should take into account the work-family values of overqualified workers in attempt to better manage their WFC.