Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Over the past decade, the relationship between work-life conflict and interpersonal relationships has become a subject of considerable debate among scholars and industry practitioners alike, particularly within the context of Selected Public Universities in Nigeria where operating conditions differ markedly from more developed markets.

Within the context of Selected Public Universities in Nigeria, this relationship carries particular significance. Organizations in this setting operate under a distinct combination of economic, regulatory, and market conditions that may amplify or dampen the effect of work-life conflict on interpersonal relationships, making a context-specific inquiry both timely and necessary.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite a growing body of literature on work-life conflict, there remains limited consensus on the precise nature of its relationship with interpersonal relationships, particularly within Selected Public Universities in Nigeria. Many organizations continue to make decisions about work-life conflict without a clear, evidence-based understanding of how those decisions ultimately affect interpersonal relationships. This gap between practice and empirical understanding is the central problem this study seeks to address.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To examine the effect of Work-Life Conflict on interpersonal relationships in Selected Public Universities in Nigeria.
2. To assess the extent to which work-life conflict influences interpersonal relationships within the study area.
3. To identify the challenges associated with work-life conflict in relation to interpersonal relationships.
4. To recommend strategies for optimizing work-life conflict in order to improve interpersonal relationships.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the effect of work-life conflict on interpersonal relationships in Selected Public Universities in Nigeria?
2. To what extent does work-life conflict influence interpersonal relationships within the study area?
3. What challenges are associated with work-life conflict in relation to interpersonal relationships?
4. What strategies can be adopted to optimize work-life conflict in order to improve interpersonal relationships?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant to a range of stakeholders. For policymakers and regulators, the findings offer evidence to guide the design of frameworks that support healthier outcomes around interpersonal relationships. For managers and practitioners within Selected Public Universities in Nigeria, the study provides practical insight into how work-life conflict can be better managed. Finally, it contributes to the academic literature on psychology by extending existing knowledge into a specific empirical context, and offers a reference point for future researchers.

1.6 Scope of the Study

In terms of scope, this PhD study confines itself to Selected Public Universities in Nigeria, focusing specifically on how work-life conflict relates to interpersonal relationships within that setting. Findings are interpreted within these boundaries rather than as universal claims applicable to every organization or market.