Date of Award

6-2016

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Social Work

Department

School of Social Work

First Reader/Committee Chair

Davis, Tom

Abstract

This thesis attempted to examine stressors associated with the psychiatric technician profession and levels of burnout amongst them. This was accomplished through the use of a survey which included demographic data, the Maslach Burnout Inventory Human Services Survey (MBI‑HSS), an adaptation of the Nursing Stress Scale (NSS) and a self‑care assessment tool. A total of three research questions were examined statistically including levels of burnout on subcategories (personal accomplishment, emotional exhaustion and depersonalization), most common stressors identified by psychiatric technicians and percentage of participants who utilized therapy to cope with work related stress. The survey was made available via survey monkey and posted on the website for the California Association of Psychiatric Technicians website and via links posted on Union Chapter social media pages. A total of 123 Psychiatric Technicians participated in the study. Results indicated high levels of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and personal accomplishment among psychiatric technicians. Results indicate that extended work hours and staffing minimums were significant issues impacting union members. Also significant among participants, was high level of difficulty attending work due to work related stress during the last three months. For future research, it is recommended that similar studies of psychiatric technicians be conducted to provide further insight into burnout, how it happens and how to avoid it.

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