The relationship between recognition, rewards and burnout in AIDS caring

The positive psychological and sociological dimensions of AIDS care provision may produce important information to assist burnout prevention. While most studies on stress and burnout in AIDS health care have focused on the negative and difficult aspects of this work, few have considered the notion that the rewards of care-giving may buffer against stress or counterbalance experiences that may otherwise lead to burnout. A study of HIV/AIDS volunteers examined the relationship between stressors, rewards and burnout, using the HIV Volunteer Inventory and the Maslach Burnout Inventory. Correlation data indicates that a lack of a sense of personal accomplishment is a contributor to frequency of burnout. Over a fifth of the variance of burnout frequency can be accounted for by both stress and reward factors. Qualitative interview data also support the importance of rewards. Rewards in the form of gratitude from clients and recognition and support from management positively influenced the organizational climate. This study points to the need to find ways to increase the recognition and rewards experienced by carers. The potential benefits include reduced attrition and burnout and enhanced quality of life in the work setting.