Does Effect of Workload on Quality of Work Life Vary With Generations

Abstract

This paper aims to explore the role that generation plays in the relationship between workload and quality of work life (QWL). A survey containing members from Generation Y, Generation X, and baby boomers was conducted and analyzed with multiple-group structural equation modeling (SEM). The results reveal that as workload gets heavier, QWL gets lower for Generation Ys and baby boomers. No significant effect of workload on QWL was found for Generation Xs. This finding statistically supports the claim of this study that generation moderates the relationship between workload and QWL. The implications of this finding raise discussion on the essential consideration of generation in employee selection, management, and work design.