Along for the ride through liminal space: A role transition and recovery perspective on the work-to-home commute
Abstract
The increase in remote work during COVID-19 has drawn attention to the function of commutes as work-home transitions. While prior work-home research has referenced commutes as an example of role transitions, little is known about how the characteristics of a commute or the behaviors and processes undertaken in a commute affect their nature. We integrate research on commute characteristics, role transitions, and psychological recovery to develop a transitional perspective of commuting. We provide a conceptualization of liminal space that differentiates its physical and temporal dimensions and its psychological dimension as characteristics of the space through which one transitions during the commute and the experience of rolelessness one may perceive while doing so. We argue that perceived liminality during the commute frees cognitive resources for psychological role transition and recovery. Based on our conceptual model, we discuss implications for role transitions, commuting, and telecommuting research.
Plain Language Summary
Commutes provide a regular opportunity for individuals to shift from the work domain to the home domain. While making this transition, commuters occupy a “liminal space” in which they are neither fully engaged with work or home thoughts and behaviors. We explain and explore the physical, temporal, and psychological dimensions of this space, how the characteristics of commutes shape these dimensions, and how these dimensions create an opportunity for individuals to both recover from work and more effectively shift into the home role domain after the commute.
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Biographies
Kristie L. McAlpine is an assistant professor of Management in the School of Business-Camden at Rutgers University. She received her PhD in Human Resource Studies from Cornell University. Her research examines several themes associated with the changing nature of work, particularly changes stemming from advances in technology and demographic changes in the workforce. This includes a focus on how employees and organizations manage virtual work, diversity, and the work-family interface. Her research has been published in academic outlets such as Annual Review of Organizational Psychology and Organizational Behavior and Industrial and Labor Relations Review and has been featured in The New York Times.
Matthew M. Piszczek is an assistant professor of Management in the Mike Ilitch School of Business at Wayne State University. He received his PhD in Industrial Relations and Human Resources from Michigan State University. His research program is focused on the adoption and effects of family-related and age-related human resource management practices with a focus on how these practices can promote individual well-being. His research has been published in numerous academic journals including Journal of Management, Journal of Applied Psychology, Journal of Organizational Behavior, Human Resource Management Review, Industrial and Labor Relations Review, Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, and Human Relations.
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Article first published online: October 17, 2022
Issue published: May 2023
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