The Paradox of Family Structure and Plans after Work: Why Single Childless Employees May Be the Least Absorbed at Work

Existing research has shown that positive family experiences can affect work positively. In this article, however, we consider how family may enhance work even when family experiences are not explicitly positive. We draw on boundary theory and cognitive psychology’s current concerns theory to evaluate how employees’ family structures and associated after-work activities affect their work absorption. A survey of business school alumni (Study 1)...