Abstract
The determinants of work-life balance (WLB) satisfaction among never-married individuals in middle age are examined in this study. Using data from a web-based monitor survey conducted in 2024, the following points were revealed by the analysis. First, never-married individuals work longer hours, place greater emphasis on work over life, while earning lower incomes, and experiencing lower WLB satisfaction than their married counterparts. Second, analysis limited to never-married individuals showed that flexibility in work arrangements, workplace fairness, and workplace relationships particularly influenced WLB satisfaction. Third, the effects of workplace relationships differ by gender: for men, relationships where they could talk casually increased WLB satisfaction, while for women, relationships where they could rely on others when facing difficulties increased WLB satisfaction. Fourth, having family members in need of care reduces WLB satisfaction for both men and women. Therefore, to improve WLB satisfaction among never-married individuals, it is crucial to achieve flexible working arrangements, workplace fairness, and supportive relationships, while taking into account their specific circumstances such as non-regular employment, low income, and living with parents.
https://ror.org/051zns832 
