Double shift, double stress: How female manufacturing managers cope with work–family conflict

Orientation: The conflicting demands of work and family contribute to individual stress levels, particularly for women because of gender stereotypes. The male-dominated and pressured environment of manufacturing and gendered expectations at home exacerbate of stress for women manufacturing managers. Research purpose: The study aimed to explore the gendered expectations of female managers in the manufacturing industry in South Africa and how they cope with resulting stress. Motivation for the study: Limited research has been conducted on the gendered expectations of female managers in the South African manufacturing industry, including stress experienced due to work–family conflict (WFC) and coping mechanisms for managing this stress. Research approach/design and method: A qualitative research approach was adopted, with a sample of 14 female managers from South African manufacturing organisations. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Main findings: Female manufacturing managers’ stress is linked to the patriarchal working environment, compounded by the lack of support for the ‘double burden’ of work and family responsibilities. Generally, female managers resort to unsustainable coping mechanisms rather than permanent solutions. Practical/managerial implications: The study revealed structural problems within the manufacturing industry, which, unaddressed, will result in women increasingly pursuing more accommodating industries, depriving manufacturing organisations of much-needed female talent. Contribution/value-add: The study acknowledged the call for cross-national work on WFC and makes a unique contribution by focusing on gendered expectations in the male-dominated sector of manufacturing in South Africa.