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Family Support Key to Work–Life Balance for Working Mothers in Digital Era, Study Finds
A 2026 study by Elfa Khorifa Izlia Aqnuri, Amanda Pasca Rini, and Andik Matulessy from the University of 17 August 1945 Surabaya reveals that family support plays the most decisive role in helping working mothers balance professional and family responsibilities. Published in Jurnal Multidisiplin Madani (MUDIMA), the research highlights how external support systems outweigh internal confidence factors such as self-efficacy in achieving work–life balance—an increasingly urgent issue in the digital age.
The findings matter as more Indonesian women join the workforce while raising young children. With over 56 million women employed nationwide, many face dual responsibilities at home and work. In a digital environment where work and personal life often overlap, maintaining balance has become both more flexible and more challenging.
Rising Pressure on Working Mothers in the Digital Age
The study addresses a growing social issue: the increasing burden on working mothers, especially those with children aged 0–6 years—the so-called “golden age” of child development. During this period, children require intensive emotional and physical care, while mothers are also expected to remain productive in their careers.
Digital technology has further complicated this balance. While remote work and constant connectivity offer flexibility, they also blur boundaries between professional and personal life. This often leads to stress, burnout, and reduced well-being.
Family support and personal confidence (self-efficacy) have long been considered key factors in managing these pressures. However, this study provides new insight into how these factors actually interact.
How the Study Was Conducted
The research used a quantitative, correlational design involving 268 working mothers across Indonesia who have children aged 0–6 years. Participants came from both formal and informal employment sectors.
Researchers collected data using validated psychological scales measuring:
- Work–life balance (WLB)
- Family support (emotional, informational, instrumental, and appreciation support)
- Self-efficacy (confidence in handling challenges)
The data were analyzed using path analysis with statistical software (JASP), allowing the researchers to examine both direct and indirect relationships between variables.
Key Findings at a Glance
The study produced several clear and measurable results:
Family support strongly improves work–life balance
- Statistical significance: p < 0.001
- Mothers with higher family support reported better balance between work and home roles.
- Statistical significance: p = 0.033
- Mothers with higher confidence manage responsibilities better.
- Statistical significance: p = 0.168
- Self-efficacy does NOT mediate the relationship between family support and work–life balance
Statistical significance: p = 0.247
In simple terms, family support directly improves work–life balance, but it does not work through increasing a mother’s self-confidence.
What These Findings Mean
The results challenge a common assumption in psychology—that internal confidence (self-efficacy) acts as a bridge between external support and life outcomes.
Instead, the study shows that practical, real-world support from family members has a more immediate and powerful impact.
As the authors explain, support such as:
- Helping with childcare
- Sharing household responsibilities
- Providing emotional encouragement
directly reduces the burden on working mothers, allowing them to better manage both roles.
Why Self-Efficacy Falls Short as a Mediator
Although self-efficacy remains important, it does not serve as a connecting mechanism between support and balance in this context.
The study suggests several reasons:
- Self-efficacy develops from long-term personal experiences, not just external support
- Digital-era pressures require tangible help, not just confidence
- Complex multitasking demands exceed what internal belief alone can manage
In other words, confidence helps—but it cannot replace actual assistance.
Implications for Policy and Society
The findings carry important implications for multiple sectors:
For families:
- Active involvement from spouses and extended family is essential
- Shared parenting responsibilities can significantly reduce stress
For employers:
- Family-friendly policies, flexible schedules, and remote work boundaries are critical
- Supporting employees’ home responsibilities improves productivity and well-being
For policymakers:
- Programs promoting family support systems should be prioritized
- Childcare support and parental leave policies can strengthen work–life balance
For mental health professionals:
- Interventions should focus not only on individual resilience but also on social support systems
A Shift Toward Social Support-Based Solutions
The study reinforces a broader shift in understanding work–life balance—not just as an individual challenge, but as a social and structural issue.
Rather than placing responsibility solely on mothers to “manage better,” the findings highlight the need for collective support systems.
In the digital era, where work can follow individuals into their homes, this support becomes even more critical.
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