The influence of risk and protective factors on burnout experienced by those who work with maltreated children

Authors: Stevens M.¹; Higgins D.J.^{1, *}

Source: Child Abuse Review, Volume 11, Number 5, September/October 2002 , pp. 313-331(19)

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Abstract:

The aim of the study was to explore the degree (and type) of burnout and trauma symptoms, personal histories and coping strategies retrospectively reported by those who work with maltreated children and their families. A self-selected sample of workers (N = 44) completed a self-report questionnaire assessing childhood maltreatment, family background characteristics, current adjustment, coping strategies and burnout. Workers reported high levels of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization, and a low to moderate sense of personal accomplishment. Family background characteristics predicted the occurrence of maltreatment and current adjustment, and a personal history of maltreatment predicted current trauma symptoms, but not burnout. Workers most frequently used problem-focused coping strategies and sought social support; however, coping strategies were not associated with the level of either trauma symptoms or burnout. Despite employing positive coping strategies, their efficacy may be affected by other interpersonal, intra-individual and job resource issues. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Keywords: burnout; stress; coping; child maltreatment; abuse workers; trauma symptoms

Language: English

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/car.754

Affiliations: 1: School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia *

Publication date: 2002-09-01

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