Resilience and Burnout: A Stitch That Could save Nine

Abstract

The central argument in this article is that there are psychological variables, subsumed here under the generic heading of resilience, that advance fortigenesis and thus create tendencies contrary to those that produce burnout, or favourable to its antipode of engagement. In a literature review, five theoretical variables are presented: engagement, meaningfulness, subjective well-being, positive emotions, and proactive coping, as well as five somewhat practical suggestions: personal strategic planning, restorative places, optimal experience (flow), interpersonal flourishing, and Balint groups. Some comments are made about research needs.

The Influence of Personality Traits and Resilience on Burnout among Customer Service Representatives in a Call Centre

“…Thus, resilient individuals are able to find personal meaning in obstacles they experience in their work environment, and are able to deal with any accompanying emotion (Lew 2001). Several researchers emphasise the notion that resilient people not only expect and maintain good and positive outcomes (Siebert 2005;Hjemdal et al 2006;Kruger and Prinsloo 2008), but also tend to regard life's challenges as opportunities for pro-active learning, growth, and development (Strumpfer 2003;O'Rourke 2004;Theron 2004;Youssef and Luthans 2007;Kruger and Prinsloo 2008).…”

“…From a state-like approach, the individual characteristic of resilience has also been frequently associated with positive thoughts and emotions, especially when the individual is experiencing a taxing event (Gustafson 1999;Strumpfer 2003;Visser 2007;Phillippe et al 2009). …”

Managerial level, managerial motivation and sense of coherence

“…This implies an element of motivation and occupational self-directedness. Strümpfer (2003) did a meta-analysis of sense of coherence and job satisfaction and came to the conclusion that higher job satisfaction would be a result if an employee makes emotional and motivational sense of work demands. Meaning-providing variables may therefore, assist in warding off burnout (a possible consequence of prolonged stress).…”

Examining the Impact of Resilience on Work Stress and Strains in Nurses

“…Some researchers have advocated for additional research into this area (Strümpfer, 2003). However, research into the relationship between resilience and burnout has been studied in other health care workers.…”

“…Given the affective relationship between the burnout facet of emotional exhaustion and resilience, it is plausible to predict a relationship between resilience and burnout. No research has examined the relationship between resilience and burnout in a sample of nurses, though researchers have advocated for more research into the area (e.g., Strümpfer, 2003). Specifically, resilience has been proposed as a means of overcoming burnout and stress for nurses (Edward & Hercelinskyj, 2007).…”