Having Children and Being Married Are Predictors of Burnout and Obesity Among Working Men: Effects of Latent Profile Analysis.

Emergency call-takers and dispatchers' (ECDs) work makes them vulnerable to occupational burnout and health problems. The aim of this research was to apply a Person-Oriented approach in order to examine the relationships between burnout risk factors (having children), personal resources (being married), and health consequences (overweight and obesity) among men working in these positions. The burnout syndrome was assessed among 228 Polish ECDs using The Link Burnout Questionnaire and the method of latent profile analysis (LPA). All ECDs were characterized by high levels of occupational burnout exhibited in 3 out of its 4 dimensions. The LPA allowed us to differentiate 4 patterns of burnout, taking into account socio-demographic variables, the length of employment as ECD and body weight. The need to balance the demands of professional work with having children and marital roles played an important role in predicting the level of professional burnout. There was a relationship between the dimensions of occupational burnout and age, being married, and having children. Being married was associated with a greater intensity of emotional exhaustion, and the level of exhaustion was higher if the employee had children in their care. Health consequences in the form of overweight and obesity can be associated with levels of emotional exhaustion and professional effectiveness. The application of the Person-Oriented approach presents hidden correlations between burnout predictors and health consequences.

Polish version of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-42) - adaptation and normalization. / Polska wersja Skali Depresji Leku i Stresu (DASS-42) ­ adaptacja i normalizacja.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to present the Polish adaptation and preliminary normalization of the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale - 42 (DASS-42). METHODS: The study was conducted among 1,021 participants (625 females and 396 males) aged 18-83 years (M = 30.67; SD = 13.25). It was a non-clinical sample. Second sample was a group of 49 psychiatric patients (28 females and 21 males) aged 22-76 years (M = 49.40; SD = 13.34). The reliability of the DASS-42 was measured using Cronbach's α coefficients and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). RESULTS: In the non-clinical sample the Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0.93 points for the depression subscale; 0.89 points for the anxiety subscale; 0.92 for the stress subscale, and 0.96 for the DASS-42 total score. The ICC were satisfactory, between 0.37 and 0.49 points. Psychiatric patients obtained significantly higher results in all subscales and in a total score of the DASS-42 (p< 0.001) than healthy participants. It is an indicator of good concurrent validity of the method. The effect size of the differences for all questionnaire indicators was large (0.96

Dynamics of suicidal frequency changes within the Poland rail system - an attempt of epidemiological analyzes. / Dynamika zmian czestotliwosci samobójstw na kolei w Polsce ­ próba analizy epidemiologicznej.

OBJECTIVES: The analysis presented in the article is the first study of suicide on railway tracks in Poland. METHODS: An epidemiological assessment was conducted, study type: case series, population-based with use of the data from the National Police Headquarters. The rates of railway suicides in Poland in the years 2007-2018 were compared to the overall number of suicides in Poland and in the Europe. RESULTS: In 2007-2018, the average share of deaths by railway suicide in the overall number of suicides committed in Poland amounted to 2.06%. Between the years: 1999 -2018 there is a growing number of railway suicide attempts and railway suicide attempts without deaths. Since 2012, an increase of suicide attempts on railway tracks, along with a constant number of suicide deaths, has been observed. In 2017 - 2018, throwing oneself under a train to end one's lifewas the third most commonly chosen method in Poland. Although it accounted for only a small percentage of all methods of suicide, it was chosen relatively more often than in other European countries. CONCLUSIONS: Poland belongs to a small group of European countries where the number of deaths by suicide has displayed an upward tendency in the course of 20 years. There is a growing number of unsuccessful railway suicide attempts. The index of deaths on railway tracks in Poland, was considerably higher than the average index for the EU.

Latent Occupational Burnout Profiles of Working Women.

According to scientific research, emergency call-takers and dispatchers (ECD) are particularly vulnerable to burnout syndrome. It can be observed that this occupation is predominantly performed by women. Moreover, the studies on occupational burnout indicate its different causes depending on employees' gender. The aim of this research was to apply a Person-Oriented approach in order to examine the relationships between particular risk factors, the level of burnout, and its health consequences in a group of women. A cross-sectional survey study was conducted on 296 women (call-takers and dispatchers) from public-safety answering points in Poland. The Link Burnout Questionnaire and a sociodemographic questionnaire were used to gather information. The method of latent profile analysis (LPA) was employed in the study. The study revealed burnout patterns without full symptoms as well as four different burnout profiles. The findings partially confirmed initial assumptions about correlations between the length of service as ECD, marital status, motherhood, burnout symptoms, and body mass index (BMI). Sociodemographic variables differentiated the examined women in terms of their emotional exhaustion and BMI. Three groups of women at risk of burnout and overweight were identified: those with the shortest job experience, those with the longest job experience, and an intermediate group. In each of these groups, symptoms indicating a possible risk of burnout-related health issues could be observed. The application of a Person-Oriented approach allowed for assessing possible correlations between burnout risk factors, its symptoms, and health consequences.

Profiles of Occupational Burnout in the Group of Representatives of High-Risk Professions in Poland.

(1) Background: Working in a high-risk profession is associated with taking on a large responsibility and risking loss of health or life. These professions include, among others, air traffic controllers, firefighters, and ECDs. People working in these professions are particularly vulnerable to experiencing high levels of stress and developing professional burnout syndrome. The aim of the conducted research was to assess the external and internal differences in the intensity of occupational burnout dimensions among representatives of high-risk occupations and to distinguish burnout profiles among them. (2) Methods: The total number of participants working in high-risk occupations who took part in the study was N = 1239, including the following job positions: air traffic controllers (n = 107), firefighters (n = 580), and ECDs (n = 558). The respondents completed the following self-report questionnaires: a structured survey and the Link Burnout Questionnaire. The following statistical tests were performed: cluster analysis, analysis of variance, and chi-square test of independence. (3) Results: The highest intensity of burnout dimensions was presented by representatives of ECDs. Profiles reflecting the types of occupational burnout were distinguished. The representatives of air traffic controllers demonstrated the following profiles: 1-low risk of burnout with a component of psychophysical exhaustion; 2-exhausted with a moderate tendency to disappointment; 3-burned out, ineffective, and uninvolved. The profiles of the ECDs were: 4-engaged, with a reduced sense of effectiveness; 5-with a reduced sense of effectiveness; 6-burned out with a low sense of effectiveness. However, the profiles of the firefighters were: 7-not burned out; 8-at risk of burnout; 9-exhausted with a tendency towards disappointment. Individuals representing the various burnout profiles differed in terms of the severity of the dimensions of occupational burnout as well as sociodemographic and work-related characteristics. (4) Conclusions: The process of occupational burnout varies among people in various high-risk occupations and due to sociodemographic characteristics. The internal differentiation of people representing high-risk professions requires different psychological interventions and preventive measures.

Profiles of Burnout, Job Demands and Personal Resources among Emergency Call-Takers and Dispatchers.

According to scientific research, emergency call-takers and dispatchers are particularly vulnerable to burnout syndrome. There are no data describing specific burnout patterns or allowing for the definition of subgroups of workers who are particularly at risk. The aim of this research was to apply a person-oriented approach to characterize burnout profiles using job-related variables and personal resources. A cross-sectional survey study was conducted on 553 call-takers and dispatchers aged between 19 and 65, from 14 public safety answering points in Poland. The Link Burnout Questionnaire, the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale, the Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale, and an independent questionnaire were used to gather information. K-means cluster analysis was used, which allowed us to highlight three distinct burnout risk profiles: high risk of burnout, without full-blown pattern of burnout with high inefficacy, and no risk of burnout with an increased sense of disappointment. Several variables which coexisted with occupational burnout included work experience, weekly working hours, intensity of perceived stress, and self-efficacy level. The application of a person-oriented approach made it possible to identify groups of call takers characterized by a high risk of burnout syndrome, and to indicate the areas in which preventive measures, focused on each of their specific needs, should be taken.

Polish Emergency Dispatchers During a COVID-19 Pandemic - Burnout Syndrome, Perceived Stress, and Self-Efficacy. Effects of Multidimensional Path Analysis.

International research has demonstrated that emergency call operators face unique risks to their mental health, in particular job stress, and occupational burnout syndrome. There is already wide knowledge about the relationship between stress, burnout and employee personal resources, which has practical application in preventing mental health. However, more research into the subtle relationships between variables is needed. The aim of the study was to check the moderation effect of differences in the intensity of latent variables on the relationship between perceived stress, self-efficacy and professional burnout. The participants were 546 call-takers and dispatchers from 14 public-safety answering point in Poland aged between 19 and 65 years. The Link Burnout Questionnaire, the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale, the Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale, and an independent questionnaire were used to gather information. The method of path analysis was used. The study confirmed the existence of negative relationships between perceived stress (assessment of the current situation) and self-efficacy (a personal trait). Taking into account the moderating effect of latent variable: psychological comfort revealed a hidden relationship between stress and burnout. The stress-burnout relationship occurred only among participants with low level of psychological comfort, so it was not a proportional relationship. In the case of participants with a high level of second latent variable: power-to-affect, the hypothesis that a high level of this variable should weaken the relationship between stress and burnout was not confirmed. The level of latent variables did not affect the self-efficacy relationship with occupational burnout. Taking into account the differences in the intensity of latent variables showed their moderating effect, which often turned out to be different from the assumed one and obtained in the research of other authors. This allowed to discover the relationships that might otherwise have been overlooked and not included in burnout prevention. The results showed a high level of occupational burnout in the ECD's group during the COVID-19 pandemic: 32% of the responders reported emotional exhaustion, 53% loss of professional effectiveness.

Burnout and Perceived Stress of Polish Emergency Call Takers and Dispatchers.

A scientific research has demonstrated that emergency call operators face unique risks to job stress and burnout. It was hypothesized that perceived stress (demonstrated as resourcefulness-helplessness dimension) may mediate relationships between work environments and burnout taking into account the buffering effect of self-efficacy. The participants of the study were 546 emergency dispatchers and call-takers from 14 Polish public-safety answering points. The Link Burnout Questionnaire, the Perceived Stress Scale and the Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale were employed. The method of path analysis was used and direct and indirect interactions between the variables were identified. Shorter work experience (fewer years on this specific job position) was associated with a higher level of burnout. The greater number of shifts per month was associated with a higher level of perceived stress (higher level of helplessness). Self-efficacy was combined with perceived stress by antagonistic relationships, but the assumed buffering effect on burnout was not confirmed. It was observed that engaging the resource of one's own self-efficacy in professional work may lead to the loss of other personal resources, manifesting itself in the form of greater disappointment with the work performed.

Confirmatory Factor Analysis of Three Versions of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-42, DASS-21, and DASS-12) in Polish Adults.

Background: The Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS) are designed to identify quickly and differentiate between the symptoms of depression and anxiety in the non-clinical population. Different versions (original and short) were validated in many cultures. Nevertheless, there are no data of factorial validity of the different versions of this scale in Polish culture. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the factor structure using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and internal consistency of DASS-42 (original version) and two short versions (DASS-21 items and DASS-12 items) in the Polish population. Methods: The DASS-42 was administered to a non-clinical sample, broadly representative of the general Polish adult population (n = 1,021) in terms of demographic variables. The DASS-21 and DASS-12 version used in this study comprise seven and four items from each of the following corresponding three subscales of the Polish version of DASS-42. Results: There were two models that fitted best for DASS-42: (a) modified three correlated factors (depression, anxiety, and stress) with cross-loadings and (b) second order (general factor of psychological distress) and three factors with cross-loadings. There were also two models that fitted best for DASS-21 and DASS-12: (a) modified three correlated factors (depression, anxiety, and stress) and (b) second order (general factor of psychological distress) and three factors. Conclusions: All three versions of DASS appear to have an acceptable factorial structure. However, the shorter versions (DASS-21 and DASS-12) may be more feasible to use in general medical practice and also be less burdensome to participants.

An Exploration of Perceived Stress, Burnout Syndrome, and Self-Efficacy in a Group of Polish Air Traffic Controllers and Maritime Navigators: Similarities and Differences.

BACKGROUND: This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the level of perceived stress and occupational burnout in groups of Polish maritime navigators and air traffic controllers. The study was part of research into occupational groups regarded as equally emotionally burdened. We tested the usability of a model linking occupational burnout, perceived stress, and seniority. METHODS: The set of questionnaires, including the link burnout questionnaire, perceived stress scale-10, and generalized self-efficacy scale were distributed to 54 maritime navigators and 88 air traffic controllers (rate of return: 18-56%). Spearman's rho, χ2 test, the Mann-Whitney U test, Cohen's d and Hedge's g coefficients, linear regression, and F statistic were used. RESULTS: The assumption that persons employed in occupations with the special professional requirements as air traffic controllers and maritime navigator with a risk of strong, chronic emotional overload evaluate their life situation as less stressful than other employees was confirmed. A higher level of occupational burnout was observed in groups of controllers and navigators compared to an equally emotionally burdening occupational group of Polish firefighters, but not Polish psychiatrists. The research groups differed regarding the source of stress: fear of helplessness in the air traffic controller group and inefficacy in overcoming adversities in the maritime navigators. Maritime navigators reported a higher level of occupational burnout, deterioration of relations with coworkers, and disappointment with their work compared to the air traffic controllers. CONCLUSIONS: The results showed differences in factors linked to workplace demands and the personal predispositions of employees, and the role these may play in mutual relations between occupational burnout, life situation evaluation, and personal resources. We postulate that the level of perceived stress should be taken into account in the studies of occupational burnout syndrome.

[Empathy and stress: the mediating impact of the emotional labor strategies on the example of surgical nurses]. / Empatia a stres: mediujacy wplyw strategii pracy emocjonalnej na przykladzie pielegniarek zabiegowych.

BACKGROUND: The nurse, when performing emotional labor at work, tunes her own emotions to the patient's expectations. The self-regulation strategies which are then used weaken her mental strength and contribute to various symptoms of occupational burnout syndrome (OBS). In addition, certain positive relationships have been found between selected emotional labor strategies and increased work engagement. The skills of empathizing with the patient are the nurse's protective resource. Empathy allows to share emotions with the patient while maintaining the attitude of a neutral observer. It also helps to take actions to reduce pain and suffering, and to build a relationship of mutual trust and cooperation. The purpose of the present study, conducted in a group of surgical nurses in January‒March 2019, was to analyze a theoretical model which assumed the mediating role of emotional labor strategies in the relationship between empathy and OBS. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The sample consisted of 84 surgical nurses employed at the University Hospital in Kraków. A cross-sectional design was used with the application of a questionnaire method. In the study, the Polish version of the Link Burnout Questionnaire by Jaworowska was used, together with the Empathy Quotient - short by Jankowiak-Siuda and the Deep Acting and Surface Acting Scale by Finogenow. For the statistical analysis, the IMB SPSS Statistics 24 with Hayes PROCESS version 3.4 was employed. RESULTS: A negative correlation between the level of empathy and the severity of OBS symptoms was confirmed in the study. The use of the surface regulation strategies of emotional labor weakened the protective effect of empathy on burnout. The use of deep action processing strategies of emotional labor supported this relationship. CONCLUSIONS: The flexible use of emotional self-regulation strategies by the medical staff deepens their personal contact with the patient, and mediates in the level of empathy and the severity of OBS symptoms. Med Pr. 2020;71(4):461-71.

[The reciprocal relationship between occupational burnout, emotional labor and work engagement in healthcare specialists]. / Wzajemne relacje miedzy wypaleniem zawodowym, praca emocjonalna i zaangazowaniem w prace u pracowników ochrony zdrowia.

BACKGROUND: Emotional labor (EL) is a competence balancing work engagement (WE) and authenticity in relationships with the patients with a depletion of psychophysical and emotional recourses. The main purpose of the study was to examine the reciprocal relationships between EL, WE and the level of occupational burnout syndrome (OBS) in a group of Polish nurses. The article presents the results of a study aimed at verifying how hiding feelings (HF) and the deep acting of emotions (DA) in contacts with patients serve as moderators in the relationship between WE and the OBS level. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted using the quantitative methodology with a correlation design. All the participants completed 3 standardized questionnaires (Polish versions): the Link Burnout Questionnaire, the Deep Acting and Surface Acting Scale, and the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale. The research sample was randomly selected in one of the hospitals in Kraków. Data saturation was completed upon obtaining a set of 100 correctly completed questionnaires. The study covered 100 nurses (age: M±SD = 36.91±10.12 years, seniority M±SD = 14.77±10.89 years). For the analysis of the data, the IMB SPSS Statistics 24 with Hayes PROCESS version 3.1 was employed. RESULTS: The study has revealed that there is a negative relationship between WE and OSB, and a positive relationship between HF and OBS. The results have indicated that as the level of WE drops, the importance of HF for explaining the increase in OBS rises. If a low WE coincides with frequent HF, the risk of OBS increases. CONCLUSIONS: Work engagement is a construct distinct from, and negatively related to, burnout. A high level of identification and engagement in the work may protect people who hide their emotions from the risk of OSB. Emotional labor may lead to a variety of negative consequences, at the same time forming a personal resource of a medical worker. Med Pr. 2019;70(6):711-22.

Do Polish doctors suffer from occupational burnout syndrome? An attempt to find an answer - Pilot study.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: A nationwide survey, carried out in Poland in 2013, showed that 42% of an examined group of doctors reported occupational burnout syndrome (OBS). The phenomenon of OBS among medical personnel shows a relationship with perceived stress scale (PSS) scores. The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of OBS in a group of Polish doctors, and the relationship with selected risk factors and personal resources. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study using quantitative methodology was used with the application of a questionnaire method and correlation design. Questionnaires were administered to 318 doctors (42 different specialties) working in medical facilities in Poland. All participants in the study completed two standardized questionnaires: Link Burnout Questionnaire (LBQ), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and responded to the questions on a proprietary questionnaire. ANOVA variance analysis and analysis of regression was performed. RESULTS: The results of the measurement of four aspects of occupational burnout: psychophysical exhaustion (PE), commitment to relationships with patients (CP), effectiveness in performed work (EW), and existential expectations (EE), were in the medium and high levels range. Every second medical doctor who participated in the research declared a high degree of occupational burnout in each of the aspects of OBS. The high level of PSS scores, the large number of duties per month, the short work experience (years of employment) and the low number of holiday leaves, were the predictors of occupational burnout in the group of doctors taking part in the study. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of the signs of OBS among Polish doctors is consistent with the results of research in other countries. Failures in the interventions taken to reduce stress seem to co-exist with the severity of signs of burnout.