Burnout among General Practitioners: A Perspective from Equity Theory

Abstract

Investigated the relationship of harassment by patients, feelings of inequity, and social support on burnout in 567 Dutch GPs. Burnout was measured using the Maslach Burnout Inventory, and LISREL VII was used to test an a priori specified linear structural equation model that was based on equity theory. An indication of the level of burnout among GPs was obtained by comparing their scores with a group of 667 Dutch nurses from different work settings (W. B. Schaufeli and D. Van Dierendonck, 1993). Compared to GPs, nurses experienced significantly less emotional exhaustion and depersonalization, and more personal accomplishment. 25% of the GPs reported being physically harassed during the year preceding the survey. Results lend credence to C. Maslach's (see record 1980-24035-001) and H. J. Freudenberger's (1974) early view that the emotional and demanding nature of the doctor–patient relationship is a root cause of burnout. (aut. ref.)