The Influence of Defence Mechanism on Academic Burnout and Associated Profiles among Undergraduate Students

Abstract

This cross-sectional study investigated the role of defence mechanism in academic burnout and its associated profiles. 248 females and 210 males, aged 16 to 30 years (M = 19.87, SD = 2.338) participated in the study. 56.9% were from Covenant University and 43.01% from Lagos State University. Data was collected using Maslach Burnout Inventory – General Survey for Students and Defence Mechanism Rating Scale-Self-Report Scale 30. Results indicated that students predominantly utilizing mature defence mechanisms reported lower mean scores for emotional exhaustion and cynicism, but higher for professional efficacy. Binomial logistic regression showed that, overall defensive functioning significantly predicted the occurrence of negative burnout profiles indicative of high emotional exhaustion, cynicism, or professional inefficacy (X² (1) = 19.252, p < 0.05). However, the prediction of the specific burnout profile was not supported (X² (1) = 1.405, p > 0.05). Mature defensive functioning significantly predicted the positive engagement profile (X² (1) = 27.040, p < 0.05). These findings underline the complex interplay between defence mechanisms and burnout. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of how defence mechanisms influence academic burnout and highlights the potential for interventions targeting adaptive defence strategies to mitigate burnout’s negative impacts.