Piergiorgio Argentero1, Ilaria Setti. 1. Department of Psychology, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy. piergiorgio.argentero@unipv.it
Abstract
PURPOSE: The aims of this study are (1) to investigate the incidence of the symptoms of Vicarious Traumatization in a group of rescue workers; (2) to explore some of the main predictors of Engagement and Vicarious Traumatization; and (3) to identify the individual and organizational factors able to improve the state of well-being of those working in the helping professions. METHODS: A total of 782 rescue workers, involved in critical operations of various kinds in constant contact with traumatized subjects, were investigated applying the Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Scale (MBI-GS) and the Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale (STSS). RESULTS: The post-traumatic symptoms most frequently reported were those of an intrusive nature. A partial overlap emerged between the predictors of Vicarious Traumatization and Engagement: if compared with social and demographic characteristics and with the degree of commitment required by the work, organizational variables would appear to have the greatest influence over the two constructs. A supportive working environment in particular favors Engagement, reducing the probability of developing Burnout. CONCLUSIONS: The results confirm the hypotheses that Engagement and Vicarious Traumatization are primarily determined by organizational variables, and, particularly, by the level of job support.
PURPOSE: The aims of this study are (1) to investigate the incidence of the symptoms of Vicarious Traumatization in a group of rescue workers; (2) to explore some of the main predictors of Engagement and Vicarious Traumatization; and (3) to identify the individual and organizational factors able to improve the state of well-being of those working in the helping professions. METHODS: A total of 782 rescue workers, involved in critical operations of various kinds in constant contact with traumatized subjects, were investigated applying the Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Scale (MBI-GS) and the Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale (STSS). RESULTS: The post-traumatic symptoms most frequently reported were those of an intrusive nature. A partial overlap emerged between the predictors of Vicarious Traumatization and Engagement: if compared with social and demographic characteristics and with the degree of commitment required by the work, organizational variables would appear to have the greatest influence over the two constructs. A supportive working environment in particular favors Engagement, reducing the probability of developing Burnout. CONCLUSIONS: The results confirm the hypotheses that Engagement and Vicarious Traumatization are primarily determined by organizational variables, and, particularly, by the level of job support.
Authors: Roman Cieslak; Valerie Anderson; Judith Bock; Bret A Moore; Alan L Peterson; Charles C Benight Journal: J Nerv Ment Dis Date: 2013-11 Impact factor: 2.254