Mediating the effects of work-life conflict between transformational leadership and health-care workers' job satisfaction and psychological wellbeing

The importance of work-life balance for job satisfaction and well-being among healthcare employees is well-recognised. Evidence shows that transformational leadership style is linked to psychological well-being. It is possible that transformational leadership is also associated with employees’ perceptions of work-life conflict, thereby influencing their job satisfaction and well-being. This study examined these relationships within Danish elderly care. A longitudinal design was used with a baseline and 18 month follow-up questionnaire (N = 188). Regression analyses showed that transformational leadership style was directly associated with perceptions of work-life conflict, job satisfaction and psychological well-being. Work-life conflict mediated between transformational leadership and well-being, but not job satisfaction. The findings suggest transformational leadership style may improve perceptions of work-life balance and employee well-being.