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From Passion to Burnout: The Role of Work–Family Conflict and Job Satisfaction in the Workplace

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  • Cátia Sousa

    (Centre for Research in Psychology (CIP/UAL), University of Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
    Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, University of Algarve, Campus das Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal)

  • Ana Sofia Ferro

    (Faculty of Economics, University of Algarve, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
    CinTurs, Research Centre for Tourism, Sustainability and Well-Being, University of Algarve, 8005-294 Faro, Portugal)

Abstract

In the modern workplace, understanding the dynamics of work passion and its consequences on employee well-being is crucial. This quantitative study, conducted with Portuguese workers, seeks to examine and validate the Dualistic Model of Passion, which distinguishes between harmonious and obsessive passion, while also exploring the intricate relationships among work passion, job satisfaction, work–family conflict, and burnout. Using mediation analyses and structural equation modeling (SEM), a convenience sample of 326 participants (169 men and 157 women), aged between 19 and 69 years (M = 41.31, SD = 10.52), was analyzed to uncover how different types of work passion—obsessive and harmonious—impact professional outcomes and well-being. The findings reveal that obsessive passion for work is a significant predictor of work–family conflict, which, in turn, escalates the risk of burnout. In contrast, harmonious passion is positively associated with increased job satisfaction and acts as a buffer against the negative effects of work–family conflict. Notably, contrary to initial assumptions, obsessive passion does not directly precipitate burnout. Mediation analyses confirmed that work–family conflict plays a key role in this process, while SEM results demonstrated strong model fit indices, reinforcing its relevance and applicability in organizational settings. These results offer crucial insights for both theoretical advancement and practical applications, highlighting the importance of fostering a work environment that nurtures harmonious passion. By doing so, organizations can mitigate conflict and burnout while promoting higher levels of job satisfaction among employees.

Suggested Citation

  • Cátia Sousa & Ana Sofia Ferro, 2025. "From Passion to Burnout: The Role of Work–Family Conflict and Job Satisfaction in the Workplace," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 14(2), pages 1-18, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jscscx:v:14:y:2025:i:2:p:104-:d:1589278
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Kimberly A. Eddleston & Gary N. Powell, 2012. "Nurturing Entrepreneurs’ Work–Family Balance: A Gendered Perspective," Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, , vol. 36(3), pages 513-541, May.
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