Work–Life Balance and Nurse Productivity: The Mediating Role of Positive Spillover
Work–Life Balance and Nurse Productivity: The Mediating Role of Positive Spillover

Summary/Abstract: Purpose – Research on Work–Life Balance (WLB) in nursing often relies on narrow, Western-centric conceptualizations that overlook the complex biopsychosocial, cultural, and digital realities shaping nurses’ work experiences in emerging economies. This gap has contributed to inconsistent evidence regarding the impact of WLB on productivity. This study addresses this gap by developing and empirically validating a multidimensional WLB model tailored to the Indonesian nursing context and clarifying the mechanism by which WLB influences productivity.Aims – The primary aim is to examine how multidimensional WLB affects nurses’ work productivity. The secondary aim is to assess the mediating roles of positive and negative spillover in this relationship.Design – A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 250 registered nurses across Indonesia. Data were analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). WLB was modelled as a second-order construct comprising nine dimensions— role management, biological, psychological, social, spiritual, economic, gender perspective, contextual ecology, and digital technology—using a two-stage analytical approach.Findings – Measurement and structural model assessments, followed by bootstrapping, revealed that WLB significantly enhances positive spillover and reduces negative spillover. Positive spillover significantly improves productivity, whereas negative spillover does not. The direct effect of WLB on productivity is not significant, indicating that WLB influences productivity primarily through positive spillover.Limitations of the study – The cross-sectional design limits causal inference, and self-reported data may introduce bias. Future studies should employ longitudinal designs and explore additional mediators or contextual moderators.Practical implications – Healthcare organizations should prioritize interventions that foster positive spillover—such as supportive supervision, flexible scheduling, and digital literacy support—to strengthen nurses' well-being and performance.Originality – This study introduces a novel, contextually grounded multidimensional WLB framework and demonstrates its indirect effect on productivity through positive spillover. It offers fresh theoretical insight and actionable guidance for healthcare leaders seeking to enhance workforce sustainability.

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