The Relationship Between Burnout and Occupational Balance in Occupational Therapists in Tehran

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Despite its many positive effects, having a job can expose people to stress and threats that negatively affect health and well-being, and consequently, upset their occupational balance. Occupational therapy is one of the most stressful jobs and always exposes therapists to health-related threats due to direct contact with patients and constant and repetitive movements. This study aimed to investigate burnout and occupational balance among occupational therapists in Tehran. Methods: This cross-sectional study investigated 166 occupational therapists working in the public and private clinics and centers of Tehran. Sampling was conducted using the multistage method. The participants completed demographic questionnaires, the Maslach Burnout Inventory, and the Life Balance Inventory. Then, the Spearman Statistical Test was used to examine the relationship between burnout and occupational balance. Results: The results revealed a strong (r= -0.29) and significant (P=0.001) negative relationship between emotional fatigue and the total life balance list, a strong (r= -0.32) and significant (P=0.0001) negative relationship between depersonalization and total life balance and identity, and a strong (r= -0.32) and significant (P=0.0001) negative relationship between success and total life balance list. Conclusion: According to the results of this study, burnout negatively affects the identity and interests of occupational therapists but does not affect their health and communication.