An investigation into the psychological well-being of Maltese physiotherapists

Abstract

Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of burnout among Maltese physiotherapists, providing an insight of their well-being. This study also investigated the effect of demographic variables on burnout and sought to propose coping strategies and ideas to control or prevent the prevalence of burnout. Method: An online questionnaire was distributed to the members of the Malta Association of Physiotherapists (MAP), who acted as an intermediary to the study. The online questionnaire included two instruments which were used to gather data, a demographic questionnaire and the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI). In the OLBI, the cut-off scores were M≥2.25 for exhaustion and M≥2.1 for disengagement. If an individual exceeded the cut-off scores in both subscales, s/he was considered as being affected by burnout. There were 60 respondents to the questionnaire, which is a response rate of 61.2% of the members of MAP. Data obtained was analysed using the Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet Software. Results: 40% of the respondent were affected by burnout, 18% were disengaged, 12% were affected by exhaustion and 30% were not affected by burnout. Conclusion: Findings of this study showed that females are more affected by burnout than males. Prevalence of burnout also increases with length of service. No significant relationship was found between age and burnout.