Association between Work Engagement and Dimensions of Burnout among Catholic Priests in Durban Metro, South Africa
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Date
2017-09
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Tangaza University College
Abstract
The present study focused on the association between work engagement and burnout. Previous
studies suggest that work engagement and burnout have a negative correlation. This implies that
they cannot exist in an individual at the same time. Whereas most of the research on the association
between work engagement and burnout has been done in other parts of the globe, little has been
done in the African context and has focused on other populations apart from priests. In this light,
the study sought to examine the association between work engagement and dimensions of burnout
among Catholic priests in Durban Metro, South Africa. Despite the fact that priests in this context
seem to manifest a certain commitment and satisfaction in their work, they also seem to be
overwhelmed by its demands. A mixed method design was used and data collected from 191
priests. Findings revealed significant levels of both work engagement and dimensions of burnout
which implies that they experience both burnout and work engagement concurrently. The study
serves to sensetise priests on the fact that the positive experience of work engagement can be
compromised by the negative experience of burnout, and consequently lead to negative
implications on their ministry. Persons who have direct and indirect relation with priests, such as
Bishops and religious superiors as well as the beneficiaries of priestly service, can learn from the
study that priests are human beings who need both moral and material support in order to sustain
a positive experience of work.
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Keywords
Work Engagement, Dimensions of Burnout, Catholic Priests, Maslach Burnout Inventory, Socio-demographic