Work-family boundary management styles in organizations: A cross-level model

We develop a cross-level model and typology of work-family (W-F) boundary management styles in organizations. A boundary management style is the general approach an individual uses to demarcate boundaries and attend to work and family roles. We argue that variation in W-F boundary management styles (integrator, separator, alternating) is a function of individual boundary-crossing preferences (flexibility, permeability, symmetry, direction); the centrality and configuration of work-family role identities; as well as the organizational work-family climate for customization. The model assumes that an individual's perceived control to enact a boundary style that aligns with boundary-crossing preferences and identities has direct effects on individual perceptions of work-family conflict and also moderates the level of work-family conflict of boundary management styles experienced across organizational contexts. We offer propositions relevant to future research and practice.