Social Support Networks and Work-Family Balance of Married Female Bankers in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study investigated how social support networks predict work-family balance of married female bankers in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Five research questions and five corresponding null hypotheses guided the conduct of the study. A correlational design was adopted for the study. The population of the study comprised 327 married female bankers working in 181 commercial banks in Akwa Ibom State. A sample of 327 married female bankers was selected for the study using the census sampling technique. One researcher-made instrument titled “Social Support Networks and Work-Family Balance Questionnaire” (SSNWFBQ) was used for data collection. The instrument, which was divided into two sections, was subjected to face validation by three experts. The internal consistency of the instrument was established, and a reliability coefficient of 0.75 was obtained, implying that the instrument is reliable. Simple and multiple linear regression were used for data analysis at the 0.05 level of significance. The study revealed that social support dimensions taken separately and collectively significantly predicted work-family balance of married female bankers. The study concluded that social support networks play a critical role in enhancing the work-family balance of married female bankers. Based on the findings of the study, five recommendations were made, among which is that bank management in Akwa Ibom State should organize regular workshops, counselling sessions, and professional development programs that will equip married female bankers with time management, stress management, and problem-solving skills.