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Burnout among people working with intellectually disabled persons: a theory update and an example
Siw Tone Innstrand1, Geir Arild Espnes, Reidar Mykletun
1Department of Social Work and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences
|August 23, 2002
Summary
This study reviews work stress and burnout in professionals supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities. Future research needs empirical tests of theory-based models and longitudinal designs for intervention effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health Psychology
- Intellectual Disability Support Services
Background:
- Burnout is a significant concern in professions supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities.
- Work stress is a primary contributor to burnout in these professionals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of burnout literature relevant to professionals supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities.
- To discuss key burnout concepts, assessment instruments, and intervention strategies.
- To present an intervention study example within this specific professional group.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of burnout and work stress.
- Discussion of burnout assessment instruments.
- Analysis of stress and burnout intervention procedures.
- Case example of an intervention study.
Main Results:
- Burnout literature is extensive but requires specific application to intellectual disability support.
- Intervention strategies show potential but require rigorous empirical testing.
- Current research designs often lack the power for causal inference.
Conclusions:
- Future progress in understanding and mitigating burnout depends on empirical testing of theory-based models.
- Research designs must permit causal inferences to advance the field.
- Longitudinal studies are needed to evaluate intervention effects, particularly for staff in intellectual disability services.