Work and nonwork influences on the career satisfaction of dual-earner couples

This study examined the effect of work and nonwork influences on the career satisfaction of dual-earner couples (N = 207) in Hong Kong. Data were obtained through structured questionnaires. Results of the regression analysis revealed that the work influences set explained more of the variance in the career satisfaction of both wives and husbands than the nonwork influences set. The results further revealed satisfaction with child-care arrangements, supervisor support, skill utilization, and organization-based self-esteem to be common significant determinants. In addition to these variables, work identity was significant for husbands and income was significant for wives. Contrary to previous findings, spouse support, career autonomy, and work-family conflict were not significant for both wives and husbands. Limitations of the study and implications of the findings are discussed. (C) 1996 Academic Press. Inc.