Understanding burnout in informal caregivers : an explorative analysis of the specific structure and factors contributing to the ‘system’ of burnout

Details

Supervisors

Gourdin, Maximilien ; Janne, Pascal

Faculty

Faculté de psychologie, logopédie, sexologie et des sciences de la famille

Degree label

Master [120] en sciences psychologiques

Abstract

Almost 45 years after its initial conceptualization burnout seems as actual as never. Originating from a professional context, meanwhile burnout has been extended to other spheres of life. However, no consistent application of the burnout concept has been established either in research or in clinical practice. This omnipresent, but vast status quo of the burnout phenomenon raises questions about its concrete conceptualization and operationalization. Are we at risk to lose the very meaning of burnout by extending it beyond its original borders, at the same time deforming and limiting its content? Taking informal caregivers as exemplary case, this exploratory study investigates the specific occurrence of burnout in this population remaining closest to its original conceptualization. Analyses of the informal caregiver’s perception of their physical and mental health status, personal resources and coping strategies, their social and ‘organizational’ environment, as well as their appreciation of the caregiving role and the linked stress and burden, contribute to obtain a more detailed understanding of the ‘system burnout’ for informal caregivers. The results support a three-dimensional application of the burnout concept highlighting the importance of treating each dimension individually in research. Such measures will enable clinical practitioners to tailor their interventional and preventive actions.