An action learning intervention on work-family balance

Authors

  • John Molineux Deakin University
  • Rodney Carr Deakin University
  • Adam Fraser The Energy Factory

Keywords:

Action learning, positive psychology, work-family balance, mind-state, mindfulness, intervention, boundary theory

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to explore the impact of an action learning intervention using positive psychological techniques to impact work-family balance. It draws on theory and practice from positive psychology and action learning interventions. The research reported in this paper is exploratory in nature and utilizes a positive psychological intervention, the Third Space, with several organizational groups. Participants in the groups were given time to discuss and operationalize their ideas about it with colleagues, and then commit to take action appropriate to their work and family contexts. Survey data was gathered from attendees prior to workshops and again approximately five weeks after the workshops. The results suggest that, on average, exposure to the ideas in the workshops may have led employees to develop a more positive mind-state and improved perception of work-family balance.

Author Biographies

John Molineux, Deakin University

Dr John Molineux is a Senior Lecturer in Human Resource Management at Deakin University. His PhD from Monash University, awarded in 2006, involved an action research organisational cultural change intervention in a large government agency. John has over 30 years experience in HR management and a further 10 years as an academic. His current research involves performance and wellbeing interventions for professional employees.

Rodney Carr, Deakin University

Dr Rodney Carr is an adjunct researcher with Deakin University. He retired from full-time work a few years ago after a successful academic career, but maintains a strong interest in research, particularly research involved in human flourishing.

Adam Fraser, The Energy Factory

Dr Adam Fraser is a human performance researcher and consultant. He is Director of The Energy Factory. Adam has written several books, and is in demand as a facilitator and public speaker. He facilitaties an action learning program titled The Flourish Movement that has enabled hundreds of school principals in Australia to improve their performance and wellbeing.
ALARj Vol 26 No. 2 Cover

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Published

30-12-2020

How to Cite

Molineux, J., Carr, R., & Fraser, A. (2020). An action learning intervention on work-family balance. Action Learning and Action Research Journal, 26(2), 77–106. Retrieved from https://alarj.alarassociation.org/index.php/alarj/article/view/269

Issue

Vol. 26 No. 2 (2020): Action Learning and Action Research Journal

Section

Articles

License

On submission authors agree to share 50% copyright with Action Learning, Action Research Association Ltd (ALARA). On receipt of payment for public access to papers authors who are members of ALARA will receive 50% of the fee. The remaining 50% will be returned to ALARA.

ALARA is publishing both a hard copy and an electronic copy. There may be a delay in receiving the hard copy, as it is printed by an external print-on-demand publisher.