Burnout syndrome among agricultural officers in Kerala state

Abstract

The study was undertaken with the objective of analysing the extent of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and personal accomplishments of the Agricultural Officers of Kerala, in the context of their work environment and to suggest effecti ve measures for reducing their burnout feeling. The respondents for the study included 100 Agricultural Officers selected from three districts representing the Southern, Central and Northern zones of Kerala. Eleven personal and situational factors affecting burnout were included for the study and their relative influence on burnout were analysed. Majority of the Agricultural Officers perceived that they belong to 'very high' category of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and reduced personal accomplishments. All the 11 independent variables selected, together accounted for 74.68 per cent variation in burnout syndrome of Agricultural Officers. Among the selected personal and situational factors affecting burnout, extent of external influence, clarity of task and self confidence were found to exhibit relatively higher influence in predicting the variation in burnout feeling of Agricultural Officers. The highest direct and indirect effect on burnout was due to job satisfaction and teamwork respectively. Suggestions to reduce the burnout syndrome as perceived by the Agricultural Officers were identified through the questionnaire. The most important suggestion identified was the need for adequate supporting staff in the Krishi Bhavan, for the effective functioning of the Agricultural Officers.