Actor-partner effects of coping strategies on emotional exhaustion in dual-earner couples

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to investigate the actor and partner effects of personal coping strategies (behavioral and emotional) on emotional exhaustion, directly and indirectly through work-family conflict, in dual-earner couples, from a gender perspective.BackgroundPrevious studies support the relevance of personal coping strategies as resources that contribute to better performance in work and family roles and the well-being of couples. However, few studies have incorporated partner effects and a gender perspective into the analysis.MethodUsing a sample of 131 dual-earner heterosexual couples, actor-partner interdependence models were tested to analyze the impact of personal coping strategies on both couple members' emotional exhaustion.ResultsActor effects show no gender differences, as experienced work-family conflict increases emotional exhaustion in both couple members. However, mixed results were found for the partner effect. Women's coping strategies appeared to be negatively related to men's work-family conflict, which in turn was negatively related to women's emotional exhaustion. However, the reverse pattern was not observed: men's coping strategies were not related to women's conflict, nor did women's conflict levels affect their partners' emotional exhaustion.ConclusionsMen's and women's personal resources do not equally influence the distribution of roles within the couple or the partners' well-being.ImplicationsAlthough role sharing reduces women's emotional exhaustion, it is essential to promote their careers. Their career advancement is a matter of justice and a source of benefits for their families.