How Role Conflict Affects Parental Distress: A Path Model through Parental Guilt and Stress

Abstract

Parenting, while fulfilling, often introduces stressors that can lead to psychological distress. This study explores how role conflict—specifically work interference with family (WIF) and family interference with work (FIW)—relates to parental distress (depression and anxiety), and whether parental guilt and stress may play a role in these associations. A sample of 193 Spanish parents of children aged 0–6 participated in this study. Participants completed validated measures assessing WIF, FIW, parental guilt, stress, depression, and anxiety. Data was analyzed using path modeling, controlling for demographic variables and child health status. Both WIF and FIW were positively associated with parental guilt. A higher parental guilt was associated with higher parental stress, which in turn was linked to increased depression and anxiety symptoms. Only FIW showed direct effects on parental stress and distress, while both WIF and FIW showed indirect effects on distress through parental guilt and stress. The final models explained 21.9% of the variance of parental guilt and stress, and over 40% of the variance of depression and anxiety symptoms. Role conflict significantly contributes to parental distress, with parental guilt and stress playing a potential key factor in this association. These findings underscore the need for holistic interventions addressing both work and family domains, including organizational flexibility and community-based support, to mitigate parental stress and promote family well-being.