Job satisfaction, job stress and burnout within the practice of clinical psychology in the Western Cape

Metz, Pamela

Job satisfaction, job stress and burnout within the practice of clinical psychology in the Western Cape

Master Thesis

1987

Publisher

University of Cape Town

Department

Department of Psychology

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Abstract

The aim of this dissertation was to investigate the practice of clinical psychology in the Western Cape. This exploratory study described biographical information, characteristics, activities, and the nature of satisfaction and stress experienced. In addition, it established the degree of burnout experienced within this community, and investigated the interrelationships between job satisfaction, job stress and burnout. The sample consisted of 90 practicing clinical psychologists registered with the Professional Board for Psychology of the South African Medical and Dental Council. A questionnaire which was designed to elicit the above-mentioned information and consisted mainly of multiple-choice-type questions was mailed to the participants. Results were quantitative in nature and were treated predominantly descriptively. The study suggested that burnout occurs in low to moderate degrees and was significantly related to age, marital status and type of clinical practice. Furthermore, it was found that therapeutic expertise seemed to be an important factor when considering the interrelationships between job satisfaction, job stress and burnout.