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Abstract

Drawing on boundary theory, this study examined how boundary control influences satisfaction with work-life balance through interruptions among involuntary remote workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, we investigated whether family intrusions and nonwork task distractions mediate the boundary control–work-life balance relationship and whether having a home office moderates these effects. In Study 1 (N = 130), we tested the mediating role of nonwork task distractions among behavior analysts across two time points. Study 2 (N = 278), using a Mechanical Turk sample across three time points, extended these findings by examining both family intrusions and the moderating role of home office access. Results from both studies showed that nonwork task distractions mediated the relationship between boundary control and satisfaction with work-life balance. Study 2 further revealed that family intrusions mediated this relationship and that access to a home office conditionally moderated the indirect effects of boundary control via both mediators. These findings highlight the complex role of interruptions in remote work settings and suggest that access to a dedicated office space can mitigate interruptions' negative impacts. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed to inform decisions around the adoption or discontinuation of remote work practices.

Keywords

remote work satisfaction with work-life balance boundary control interruptions boundary theory moderated mediation COVID-19

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Boundary Control and Work-Life Balance: The Mediating Role of Interruptions and Moderating Effect of an Office Space

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