Experiences of social workers in nongovernmental services in Cyprus leading to occupational stress and burnout

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore work stress among social workers working in nongovernmental services in Cyprus and the factors affecting work performance, as well as possible causes of occupational stress and work burnout. It focuses on organizational characteristics as well as individual factors, which can have an impact on the social workers’ work performance. The method of collecting qualitative data was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 12 professional social workers employed in different nongovernmental organizations. Results show that important sources of work stress for these social workers include the excessive workload, working overtime, dealing with role ambiguity/conflict and ethical dilemmas in the workplace, and having to confront unmet personal expectations and a negative public perception of the profession. These work stressors combined with the insufficient support and understanding by the supervisor and colleagues may lead to occupational stress and burnout symptoms. Findings highlight the fact that awareness and understanding of the impact of occupational stress could be a primary focus of prevention of burnout among professional social workers.