Work-Family and Construction: Public and Private Sector Differences

A comparison of the experiences of employees working in construction for a public sector organization and a private sector company was undertaken. Similarities and differences in work-family balance between these sectors have not previously been explored. A quantitative approach, utilizing online questionnaires, assessed employees' perceptions, and work-family practices, including proactively blending work and family demands with flexible hours and positive organizational and supervisor support, were examined. Independent t-tests compared the public sector and private sector employees' responses. Private sector employees reported higher levels of work interference with family life. They worked longer hours, had significantly less work-related flexibility, greater work-family conflict, and more difficulty managing family responsibilities than public sector employees. Recommendations are made from practices identified within the public sector to improve private sector employees' ability to balance work and family demands. In addition, rotation of staff between the public and private sector should be investigated to improve work-family balance and advance cultural change within the construction industry. (C) 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers.