Impacts of nonstandard work schedules on family and social life: the children’s perspective

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to understand the impacts of nonstandard work schedules on family and social life from the perspective of workers’ children. Background: The literature has shown that nonstandard work schedules, especially those involving rotating shifts and/or nights, have negative consequences for workers’ families and social life. However, workers’ perspective has been used mostly, being that literature recommends the inclusion of the perspective of third parties such as their family members. Method: Twelve children of workers working in nonstandard work schedules, aged between 14 and 20 years, participated in the study. Data were obtained using semi-structured interviews. Results: Negative impacts were reported on time spent with family, communication, school activities, extracurricular activities, and family management. The participants also reported disadvantages to the health of workers, such as fatigue and sleep problems. According to them, conventional working hours would be more beneficial for family and social life and workers’ health. Application: The role that the organizational context can play in adapting to nonstandard working hours is discussed in order to minimize the impacts felt by workers and families, especially in the family and social spheres.