| Popis: |
Burnout refers to characteristic stress symptoms that typically result from chronic overload at the workplace. However, increased stress and strain are observed already in children and adolescents. The present study considers factors that influence burnout symptoms in high school students. To this end, the influence of gender, immigration background, academic achievement, class level, and the association with bullying, boredom and mental and physical symptoms were examined. In addition, an explorative analysis of subjective stressors was carried out. For that purpose, a survey was conducted among 502 German high school students using an adapted version of the German "Burnout Bullying Inventory" (BMI). To check for stability in the questionnaire ratings, the study was repeated 9 months later. The results showed that burnout stress was stable over time, with significant correlations to the factors studied. Higher burnout scores could be predicted by female gender, immigrant background, low academic achievement and higher class level. The analysis of subjective stressors revealed a significant influence of "homework" and stress resulting from "pressure” to perform at school. The adapted version of the Burnout Bullying Inventory showed high internal consistencies for the burnout scale (Cronbach’s α = 0.87-0.88) and factor-analytical approaches supported the investigated factors in the student sample. Using the objective and subjective predictors studied here, up to 49% of the variance in burnout scores in high school students can be explained. The knowledge of predictors that enhance the risk of developing symptoms of school burnout can provide valuable evidence for potential prevention and intervention points. |
