Title: Working from home, COVID-19 and multi-dimensional model of well-being theory

Authors: Muhamad Azuwan Juna; Muhammad Anshari; Norainie Ahmad; Mahani Hamdan

Addresses: Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jln. Tungku Link Gadong, Darussalam, Brunei ' Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jln. Tungku Link Gadong, Darussalam, Brunei ' Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jln. Tungku Link Gadong, Darussalam, Brunei ' Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jln. Tungku Link Gadong, Darussalam, Brunei

Abstract: The well-being theory (WBT) identifies five well-being variables: positive emotion, engagement, relationships, meaning, and accomplishment (PERMA). These variables are significantly empirically verified predictors of flourishing or optimum well-being. However, empirical research for WBT's multidimensional model in the context of work from home, particularly during COVID-19, is limited. This study is important in order to analyse any potentials or challenges that could significantly determine the well-being of workers during WFH, for both public and private sector considerations. As such, this paper aims to contribute to the extant knowledge and practice of WFH from the perspective of the well being theory. Adopting a qualitative methodology, this study identifies the perceived benefits of WFH, including increased productivity, job satisfaction, reduced stress, improved work life balance, and better mental health. Challenges identified include increased work intensity, communication issues, and disruptions to work life balance. Further investigation into the gendered dimension of WFH and its relationship to the life stages of workers revealed a perceived equal relationship between genders, downplaying existing traditional gender stereotypes within participants' households. These findings shed some light on the importance of further research into well-being, particularly for workers and organisations opting for WFH in the post pandemic era.

Keywords: well-being theory; WBT; working from home; WFM; COVID-19; work life balance.

DOI: 10.1504/IJWOE.2022.126957

International Journal of Work Organisation and Emotion, 2022 Vol.13 No.3, pp.230 - 259

Received: 07 Oct 2021
Accepted: 27 Jun 2022
Published online: 14 Nov 2022 *

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