Organisational initiated work-life balance practises to combat burnout: the mediating effect of work locus of control – Employing the meso paradigm across selected South African public and private sector organisations

Abstract

Employee wellbeing is regarded to be important, not only for the individual, but also to improve organisational performance. The question remains whether it is the sole responsibility of the organisation to ensure employee wellbeing. Alternatively, the question is asked if a dual responsibility exist, in other words employees should also take responsibility for their wellbeing, e.g. taking time off to rest, going on holiday and spending quality time with the family. The purpose of the study was to determine the extent to which the organisational initiated work-life balance practises (macro component) contribute to employee wellbeing (the absence of burnout – as micro component) from a meso-paradigm perspective. The meso component included in the study (as mediating variable) was work locus of control, thus focusing on the individual. The contribution and value of work locus of control to wellbeing is conceptualised in terms of the planned behaviour theory. A cross sectional and survey design was applied in this empirical research. A total of 1290 respondents from diverse South African organisations in the private and public sector participated in the study. Convenience sampling was employed in the distribution of the surveys. The regression and correlation analysis indicated a significant relationship between the organisational initiated work-life balance practices and burnout (the lack thereof). This relationship is being mediated by the individual (or meso) component, namely work locus of control. The study has managerial and practical implications and recommendations were made to enhance employee wellbeing in the workplace. Recommendations were also made for future research.