Purpose The purpose of this research is to examine the work-life balance (WLB) experiences of women principals in rural settings through the lens of role theory. Design/methodology/approach Using a qualitative cross-sectional survey design, the study combines deductive role theory analysis and inductive thematic analysis. Findings The findings reveal how perceptions of WLB intersect with gender, rural context, and role theory concepts (role overload, role conflict and role strain). Additional themes emerging from the data validate and extend traditional role theory understanding. Originality/value This study contributes to role theory application in rural educational settings by introducing work-life fluidity as a theoretical extension, identifying political/systems issues that amplify role challenges and exposing an implementation gap between knowing and applying WLB strategies. These insights inform policies and practices for sustainable women's leadership.
Hudson et al. (Wed,) studied this question.