The Dialectical Relationship Between Burnout and Work Engagement: A Network Approach

Abstract

Based on previous empirical evidence, scholars have argued for a dialectical relationship between burnout and work engagement. However, these conclusions largely rely on latent variable models, which have inherent limitations due to strong hierarchical assumptions about data. As a result, previous findings should be considered preliminary indications rather than conclusive evidence. In this study, we introduce network analysis to investigate the relationship between burnout and work engagement. We demonstrate its utility by comparing the fit indices of the network model and three factor models in a cross-national sample with 2469 employees from Norway and 879 employees from the US and UK. Based on theory and fit indices, we conclude that the network model was preferred in both samples. Using this model, we uncovered positive relationships between two work engagement variables and the exhaustion component of burnout. Theoretically, this study broadens our understanding and show support for the dialectical relationship between burnout and work engagement. Furthermore, by introducing the network model to empirical research, we provide a novel approach that contribute to nuance and ideas for research on burnout and work engagement. Practically, our results offer insightful data on possible points for intervention between burnout and work engagement variables.