In what way differs the Work-Life-Balance between the USA and Germany? (PDF)

Seminar paper from the year 2019 in the subject Cultural Studies - Miscellaneous, Fresenius University of Applied Sciences Hamburg, language: English, abstract: This paper explores the differences between the USA and Germany. And the big question of which nation has found the better approach. In Germany, full-time employees spend about 15.6 hours on basic needs such as leisure activities, sleeping or eating. In the US, full-time employees spend approximately 14.4 hours on basic needs. The more time people have to fulfil their basic needs, the better is their mental and physical health (OECD Better Life Index, n.d.). It is striking, that the Germans have more time for their basic needs as Americans. In addition to the differences this paper will focus on the cultural differences in Germany and the USA according to the work-life-balance. First of all, the cultural dimensions according to Hofstede and Trompenaars will be explained. This is relevant to understand the cultural differences between the USA and Germany. These dimensions illustrate the differences of work and private life. After, that work-life-balance and the importance of work life balance will be explained. In addition, flexible work models will be explained by supporting families. Whoever works, is faced with a difficult task of balancing work and private life. In this regard families are confronted with a particularly great challenge. After, that the work-life-balance in Germany and the work-life-balance in the USA will be explained. In the following the connection between Hofstede and Trompenaars to work-life-balance will be explained.