Work-Family Conflict, Financial Stress and Mental Health Outcomes Among Middle-Income Working Adults

This study examined the interconnected influences of work–family conflict, financial stress, and mental health among middle-income working adults, offering critical insights into how competing role demands shape psychological well-being. The findings demonstrated that both work-to-family and family-to-work conflict significantly contribute to financial strain, which in turn emerges as a powerful predictor of mental health symptoms. These results reinforce the principles of Conservation of Resources theory, showing that middle-income individuals—who often have limited financial buffers—experience heightened vulnerability when personal and professional demands collide. Although financial stress successfully mediated the relationship between role conflict and mental health, the broader sequential pathways were not supported, suggesting that additional psychological or contextual factors may intervene in shaping long-term well-being. Boundary segmentation preference played a notable moderating role, indicating that individuals who maintain clearer boundaries between work and family experience less conflict-induced financial stress. This emphasizes the importance of personal coping strategies alongside organizational support. Overall, the study highlights the need for workplaces, policymakers, and mental health practitioners to adopt integrated approaches that address both role conflict and financial strain. Supporting middle-income workers in managing these pressures is essential for promoting sustainable well-being and healthier work–life integration.

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