Conference topics
The main lines of research of the ICWF follow the above principles and are reflected in the founding conference themes:
Research of (international) family-responsible programs, policies, and practices
The meso- and macro-level and, more specifically, human resource policies directed at alleviating work-family conflict or facilitating work-family enrichment, change management efforts to make the company culture more responsive to caring responsibilities, and the impact of macro-level factors (legislation, culture, social policy, labour market) on organizational behavior in terms of the adoption, design, implementation, and allowance of work-family policies.
Cross-cultural research of work and family
We invite scholars studying cultural differences in work-family experiences in men and women in relation to their country context and cultural setting to share their theoretical frameworks, hypotheses, explorative and qualitative data, and empirical results. We also encourage participants in collaborative international research projects to reflect on methodological issues.
Research on decision-making in a work-family context
Cognition in work-family research and, more specifically, decision-making and cognitive processes in individuals in their attempt to resolve work-family conflict in collaborators or their own personal life. Scholars studying the processes conducing to or impeding managers' decisions to allow or not to allow work-family benefits to their collaborators are also encouraged to participate.
The study of expatriates and their families
Expatriates and employees who, due to their work responsibilities, have to travel frequently are a specific collective especially vulnerable for work-family conflicts.
An underestimated factor in their success is undoubtedly the wellbeing and adaptation of their families, travelling with them, or being left behind. On the other hand, if the work-family interface is well managed, we can expect instances of work-family enhancement as well.
Coping and strategies for creating work-family enrichment
Conscious strategies individuals and company representatives use to cope with conflict or enhance positive spill over between the two essential life domains: Work and family. Whereas the first track focuses on organizational strategies, this track focuses on individual strategies.
Career development and work-family issues
Scholars studying career development and career success in a work-family context are encouraged to participate.