What does "role conflict" refer to?

Role conflict refers to the tension or struggle that occurs when a person faces competing demands from different roles they occupy in their life. For example, an individual who is both a parent and an employee may experience role conflict when a work obligation conflicts with a child's school event. This situation illustrates how the expectations and responsibilities of one role can clash with those of another, creating stress and difficulty in managing both roles effectively.

The concept is central to understanding how individuals navigate their social lives and the complexities that arise from the multifaceted nature of their identities. By recognizing role conflict, sociologists can better understand the challenges individuals face in balancing various social roles and the potential impact on their behavior and mental well-being.