Maslach Burnout Inventory: Factor Structure and Norms for British Nursing Staff

Abstract

This study reports evidence that the factor structure of the Maslach Burnout Inventory scales may change when the scales are used as part of a wider range of items assessing feelings about work. Results from a sample of nursing staff suggested that feelings of being ‘emotionally drained’ were distinct from feelings of ‘frustration and discouragement about work.’ The extent (or lack) of personal accomplishment was confirmed as a salient factor among feelings about work. Scores on the scale for this sample of nurses were comparable with those in other studies, except that depersonalization scores were lower. This may reflect either lower incidence or lowered awareness.