Workload, working hours, and their effect on work-life balance among accountants: The mediating role of work stress

International Journal of Research Studies in Educational Technology
Divine Word College of San Jose Special Issue
Volume 10, Issue Number 1

Available Online: 2 April 2026

Author/s:

Rodriguez, Aaron Christian M.
De La Salle Lipa, Philippines (aawonmrodriguez@gmail.com)

Abstract:

Accountants are often subjected to intense workloads and extended working hours, which contribute to elevated levels of work stress and influence their work-life balance. This study examined the effects of workload and working hours on work-life balance among accountants in Metro Manila, with work stress serving as a mediating variable. Using a quantitative descriptive-correlational design, data were collected through a structured survey administered to 128 accountants. Statistical analyses, including multiple regression and Baron and Kenny’s mediation framework, were used to evaluate the relationships among variables. Findings revealed that both workload and working hours significantly affect work stress. Longer working hours were associated with higher stress levels, while workload showed a significant but inverse relationship with stress. Work stress also showed a significant positive effect on worklife balance, indicating that some respondents perceived stress as manageable or tied to job fulfillment. Working hours had a significant direct effect on work-life balance, while workload did not. Furthermore, work stress partially mediated the relationship between working hours and work-life balance but showed no mediating effect between workload and balance. These results indicate that work stress plays a central function in how accountants interpret their work conditions and personal satisfaction. The findings suggest that addressing emotional strain and managing schedules are more influential than reducing task volume in improving accountants’ work-life outcomes.

Keywords: workload, working hours, work stress, work-life balance, accountants

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrset.2026.26011

Cite this article:
Rodriguez, A. C. M. (2026). Workload, working hours, and their effect on work-life balance among accountants: The mediating role of work stress. International Journal of Research Studies in Educational Technology, 10(1), 153-170. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrset.2026.26011