This article reports the results of a pilot survey to examine staff burnout and sources of job
satisfaction and job stress among intensive family preservation workers. Participants in this
study were found to be moderately to highly emotionally exhausted as measured by the Maslach
Burnout Inventory. The intense time-limited nature of the work was perceived as a stressor.
Opportunities for improving skills and professional growth were viewed as major sources of
satisfaction. Implications are drawn for social work in-service training and worker supervision.
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