Abstract

Research on the intersection of work and family responsibilities among working women is not uncommon or groundbreaking. However, studies exploring this relationship among women entrepreneurs in developing countries are scarce, leading to a limited understanding of this issue and a lack of empirical evidence in academic literature. This knowledge gap is of relevance not only to researchers but also to women entrepreneurs and policymakers. Drawing from Hobfoll’s resource conservation theory, this study aims to address these gaps by examining the antecedents (role tension) and consequences (job satisfaction) of work–family conflict experienced by women entrepreneurs in a developing country (Tunisia). The results of a quantitative study conducted on 130 Tunisian women entrepreneurs revealed that role conflict and role overload have a positive influence on work–family conflict, whereas role ambiguity has no significant effect. Surprisingly, work–family conflict does not negatively impact job satisfaction. This study offers insightful contributions to both the work–family conflict and entrepreneurship literature. In contrast to Hobfoll’s resource conservation theory and existing work–family literature, this research suggests that work and family may act as complementary domains for women entrepreneurs rather than as opposing forces. Based on this theoretical contribution, a novel socio-economic model is proposed for policymakers to nurture and encourage women’s entrepreneurship. Future research opportunities are also explored.