The Use of Flexible Work Arrangements: Examining Experiences of Perceived Backlash Through the Lens of Diversity.

This article investigates the relationship between flexible work arrangements (FWA)—defined as employer-provided options allowing employees control over when, where, how much, and how continuously they work—and perceptions of flexibility backlash during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic among U.S. workers. Using longitudinal data from 414 employed individuals, the study found no significant overall association between FWA use and perceived promotion opportunities or work-to-life conflict. However, subgroup analyses revealed that men with greater family care responsibilities and racial minority men experienced increased work-to-life conflict related to FWA use, while women's experiences did not show this pattern. The findings highlight the importance of considering intersectionality in understanding how flexible work impacts employees differently and suggest organizational efforts should address these nuanced challenges to support diverse workers effectively.