Work–Family Balance among Dual-Earner Couples in South Korea: A Latent Profile Analysis

The declining birth rate in South Korea is concerning and linked to stress in the work–family balance, which is known to affect family planning. Therefore, providing proper support to double-earner couples might help improve the fertility rate. Work–family balance refers to the ability of individuals to perform their roles at work and home with equal involvement. This study identifies two aspects: gains and strains. Latent profile analysis is employed to create a typology that can account for the diversity in work–family balance. This approach is person-centered rather than variable-centered, and it identifies clusters of individuals that differ qualitatively, thereby examining the strains and gains experienced by double-earner couples. We classify the types of work–family balance and identify the attributes of each profile. The findings showed that men were more likely to belong to the high-gain class when they had a temporary position, multiple children, good health, low depression, higher life satisfaction levels, and strong social support. Women were more likely to belong to the high-gain class when they experienced high happiness levels and strong social support. Based on these profiles, we provide recommendations to enhance work–family balance, thereby contributing to strategies to overcome low birth rates.