LONGITUDINAL PREDICTORS OF BURNOUT IN HIV AIDS HEALTH-PROFESSIONALS

This study examined causes of burnout in doctors, nurses and social wo rkers caring for patients in HIV/AIDS units. There were 84 participant s at Time 1 (1990) and 134 at Time 2 (1991). The results focus on the longitudinal subsample of 32 who participated in the study at both tim es. Path analysis was used to explore relationships between burnout at Time 2 and age, hours per week in HIV/AIDS work, and external coping style at Time 1. Older age was related to lower levels of burnout at T ime 2. Hours per week in HIV/AIDS work was related to levels of burnou t. Participants using an external coping style were more likely to sco re highly on burnout at Time 2. Where possible, management should avoi d recruiting young, inexperienced staff without addressing burnout iss ues. Workshops to teach staff internal coping skills are recommended. Units might promote the psychosocial achievements of staff, shifting a way from the traditional cure-based achievement measures.