A structural equation model of burnout and job exit among child protective services workers

Abstract

Substantial theoretical and empirical work has been done about burnout in child welfare services. The majority of work is based on the three-part conceptualization of burnout embodied in the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). The three elements of the MBI—emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP), and personal accomplishment (PA)—are commonly viewed as a syndrome, with EE and DP having a strong positive association and PA having a weaker, negative correlation with EE and DP. This study uses a structural equation model to examine these three constructs in relation to job exit among child protective services workers over a 15-month period. The model was supported, with EE relating to job exit and DP and PA relating to EE and DP. Findings reinforce some views about the central importance of EE but also show the relevance of all three MBI elements to job exit. Implications for child welfare practice and suggestions for future research are discussed.