Burnout: Examining the Effects of Job Characteristics Across Extension Disciplines

Authors

Mia B. Russell, University of Maryland
Girvin L. Liggans, University of Maryland

Volume

58

Issue

1

DOI

10.34068/joe.58.01.20

Abstract

We conducted a cross-sectional study grounded in job demands–resources theory to examine the relationship between job characteristics and burnout across Extension disciplines. Job demands predicted burnout regardless of discipline; however, job resources predicted burnout for only three of the five disciplines studied—agriculture, family and consumer sciences, and 4-H. Accordingly, reducing job demands may be preferable to enhancing job resources as a strategy for combating burnout. Additionally, findings for community development and 4-H educators suggest that they may be at higher risk for burnout and warrant further examination. Extension leadership should consider implementing programmatic policies and strategies that address Extension educators' job characteristics within given disciplines.

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Recommended Citation

Russell, M. B., & Liggans, G. L. (2020). Burnout: Examining the Effects of Job Characteristics Across Extension Disciplines. The Journal of Extension, 58(1), Article 20. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.58.01.20