Work

Work-Life Imbalance in Mosul’s Female Nursing Workforce

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction. Work-life balance (WLB) is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, particularly for healthcare professionals such as nurses, who face the dual pressures of demanding professional responsibilities and personal life obligations. In post-conflict settings like Mosul, Iraq, female nurses encounter additional socio-cultural challenges that impact their ability to maintain WLB.Aim. This study explores the factors connected to work-life balance among female nurses working in Mosul’s teaching hospitals, focusing on professional and socio-cultural influences.Methods. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted on 250 female nurses employed in six teaching hospitals in Mosul. Data were collected using the Work-Life Balance (WLB) scale to assess participants’ perceptions of their work-life balance. The mean age of the participants was 35.6 ± 7.8 years.Results. The overall mean WLB score was 3.48, indicating moderate levels of perceived balance. Junior nurses reported lower WLB than senior nurses (3.31 vs. 3.72). Marital status was a significant predictor of WLB, with married nurses scoring lower than unmarried nurses. A negative correlation between years of experience and WLB (r=-0.43, p<0.01) was observed, suggesting a decline in WLB with increased job tenure. Strong support from family and colleagues was associated with better WLB, but structural challenges remained a key obstacle.Conclusions. The findings highlight significant worklife balance challenges for female nurses in Mosul, particularly among junior and married nurses. Interventions such as flexible work schedules and enhanced organisational support are needed to improve WLB and reduce stress. Addressing the societal expectations placed on women in caregiving roles is also critical for fostering a more supportive work environment.

Source: Croatian Nursing Journal

DOI: 10.24141/2/8/2/7

Authors: Roba Shaker Ghanim, Radhwan Hussein Ibrahim

Institutions: University of Mosul, Ninevah University

Language: English

Topic: Work-Family Balance Challenges

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Decent work and economic growth, Reduced inequalities, Gender equality

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4406180358