WORK-LIFE BALANCE CHALLENGES IN CHINA: KEY DETERMINANTS FROM RECENT LITERATURE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64451/mwznqb13Keywords:
work–life balance, China, Organizational Culture, structural determinants, gender roles, flexible work arrangements, work–family conflictAbstract
This article examines the key determinants contributing to work–life balance (WLB) challenges among employees in China by synthesizing peer-reviewed literature published between 2010 and 2025. Although WLB has been widely explored in Western contexts, limited research has addressed how it is experienced within China’s unique combination of rapid economic growth, traditional cultural norms, and evolving labor practices. Using a qualitative library-based approach and thematic analysis, the study identifies structural pressures such as long working hours, weak enforcement of labor regulations, and high job demands as major contributors to persistent imbalance. These factors are reinforced by cultural expectations rooted in Confucian values, which encourage diligence, loyalty, and acceptance of overwork. Gendered social roles further intensify challenges, particularly for women who face disproportionate caregiving responsibilities alongside their professional duties. Organizational responses remain uneven and often symbolic, with flexible work arrangements inconsistently implemented and underutilized due to stigma and managerial attitudes. Although younger generations show growing resistance to excessive work cultures, systemic barriers continue to limit improvements. The findings highlight the need for integrated reforms addressing labor policy, organizational culture, and deeply embedded social norms. This review offers a contextualized understanding of WLB challenges in China and contributes insight for future research and policy development.
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