In front of bars: the occurrence of burnout syndrome in female police officers

Abstract

Burnout results from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. The objective of this study was to investigate the presence of Burnout Syndrome (BS) in female criminal police officers who work in the prison system of Mato Grosso do Sul, in order to understand its triggering factors and levels of manifestation. A quantitative exploratory research was carried out, with a cross-sectional design. The data demonstrated the presence of BS in 14.7% (IC95%: 7.6% to 24.7%) of the participants, especially in younger women, those without children and those who work in the care sector. Among others, there was an association between a high level of emotional exhaustion and working in the care sector, drinking alcohol and not practicing physical activity; the results highlighted the need for attention to the mental health of these professionals and the development of strategies that minimize the harmful effects of prison work.