Organizational climate and burnout among home visitors: Testing mediating effects of empowerment.

Authors

Eunju Lee, University at Albany, State University of New York
Nina Esaki, University at Albany, State University of New York
Jeehoon Kim, University at Albany, State University of New York
Rose Greene, University at Albany, State University of New York
Kristen Kirkland, University at Albany, State University of New York
Susan Mitchell-Herzfeld, University at Albany, State University of New York

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-2013

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2013.01.011

Abstract

While a large body of literature exists regarding the negative effects of burnout among human service workers, less is known about the organizational strategies that may play a role in its reduction or prevention. Using data from a survey of 179 home visitors in a statewide voluntary child maltreatment prevention program, we use hierarchical regression and structural equation models (SEM) to examine the processes of burnout. We found significant direct effects of a positive organizational climate predicting lower levels of burnout as well as mediating effects of worker empowerment on burnout. Findings suggest that research and practice would benefit by focusing on improving the work environment and empowering workers.

Recommended Citation

Lee, E., Esaki, N., Kim, J., Greene, R., Kirkland, K., & Mitchell-Herzfeld, S. (2013). Organizational climate and burnout among home visitors: Testing mediating effects of empowerment. Children and Youth Services Review, 35(4), 594-602. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2013.01.011