Causes of Burnout among Social Workers in Selected Social Service Institutions in Nairobi, Kenya
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Date
2018-06
Authors
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Daystar University, School of Applied Human Sciences
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the causes of burnout among social workers in selected social service institutions within Nairobi County, Kenya. The objectives of this study sought to establish the signs, prevalence and contributing factors to burnout amongst social workers in Kenya. The study adopted a descriptive and cross-sectional survey. Stratified random sampling was used in selecting the sample population of 85 social workers. Quantitative data was collected through the administration of a researcher developed questionnaire, whereas the degree and prevalence of burnout syndrome among the social workers was measured using the Maslach burnout inventory (MBI). Semi-structured interviews were conducted on six selected respondents at the senior level management to obtain qualitative data. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 and presented using tables and figures. According to the MBI scores obtained, 52.8% of the social workers had moderate to high levels of burnout. The nature of social work, work environment, personal and social factors were found to contribute significantly to burnout among the social workers. The study indicated that lack of resources such as finances, ambiguous roles and responsibilities, poor coping mechanisms, lack of social support and low income levels were major causes of burnout among social workers. The study concluded that anger outbursts, lack of interest in one’s work, reduced work performance, lateness and absenteeism were further cited as signs of burnout among the social workers. The study recommended that regular assessments on the signs of burnout, participation in personal growth programs, provision of supportive supervision and gaining clarity on the mentorship and training needs of the social workers be periodically undertaken.
Description
MASTER OF ARTS
in Counseling Psychology
Keywords
burnout, social workers, social service institutions
Citation
Burugu, E. N. (2108). Causes of Burnout among Social Workers in Selected Social Service Institutions in Nairobi, Kenya. Daystar University, School of Applied Human Sciences