Impact of Job Stress on Work-Life Balance among Employees in the Banking Sector: A Study of Licensed Commercial Banks in Kurunegala District

Abstract

This study aims to determine the relationship between Job Stress and the work-life balance (WLB) among employees working at Licensed Commercial Banks in Kurunegala District, Sri Lanka. Four independent variables, namely Work Overload (WO), Role Conflict (RC), Role Ambiguity (RA), and Working Environment (WE) were examined as the independent variables that measures job stress. Data were collected through structured questionnaire using a sample of 100 employees working at Licensed Commercial Banks in Kurunegala district. Data were analysed using multiple regression analysis with SPSS. Results indicated that Work Overload and Role Ambiguity have a significant negative impact on Work Life Balance of employees working at Licensed Commercial banks in Kurunegala district. Further, findings revealed that bank employees in the Kurunegala district are working under a higher level of stress, with workload being the main factor. But they are experiencing a positive working environment. Furthermore, the findings highlighted the importance of addressing employees’ issues to reduce job stress, which results in higher employee turnover, lower productivity, and improved work-life balance, benefiting both employers and employees. Finally, this research would serve as a blueprint for determining the optimal level of job stress and work-life balance in the banking sector to maintain both productivity and employee satisfaction, thereby ensuring operational sustainability.