Work-family interaction: The perception of college professors about marital satisfaction

Abstract

The present article sought to understand the perceptions of college professors about their marital satisfaction (MS) and the influence that work has on their conjugality. A qualitative study which was made through interviews with six teachers (three of each sex and ages ranging from 34–50 years) was carried out. The content analysis of interviews generated three categories: (i) MS: definition and evaluation; (ii) their work routines and their partners’; and (iii) Teaching Job and Conjugality relationship. It was found that the MS was set from different elements (companionship, sexuality, confidence) and it was evaluated positively by professors. The work routine (their own and their partners’) was described as quite intense making the time for the marriage and family life quite short. The physical distance in addition to the time spent away from the children and spouse as well as the need for taking work home were mentioned as obstacles to MS. The study concluded that trying to fit work in marriage/family life, which are two central spheres to human well-being, is a challenge for these professionals.

Keywords: marital satisfaction, teachers, conjugality, work-family relationship.