Dual Role of Empathy in Job Stress, Burnout, and Intention to Leave
among Addiction Specialists
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between job stress,
burnout and intention to leave, moderated by emotional and cognitive
empathy. Data were collected via the Maslach Burnout Inventory
(MBI-HSS), “Interpersonal Reactivity Index” (IRI) measuring
perspective-taking and empathic concern, Spielberger’s “Professional
Stress Questionnaire”, and a questionnaire measuring “Intention to
leave”. Medical doctors, nurses and psychologists working in addiction
facilities were surveyed. Data processing showed that independently, job
stress increases burnout and intention to leave. Also, either cognitive
or emotional factors of empathy prevent burnout and intention to leave,
but in interaction with each other they reduce each other’s preventing
effect. Moreover, perspective-taking enhances the effect of job stress
on intention to leave. This twofold effect of empathy for burnout and
intention to leave provides practical implications for healthcare
professionals. Key words: burnout; empathy; job stress; intention to
leave.