WHAT MAKES A SOCIAL WORKER THRICE, DIVE, OR MERELY SURVIVE?

Abstract

This study measures social worker burnout and work satisfaction according to the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model of employee well-being. I developed a questionnaire to ask social workers about their stressors and resources, and validated this questionnaire using factor analysis. Three key factors were found – client stressors, agency resources, and time. 124 Singapore social workers working in direct practice with at least one year of work experience were surveyed using this questionnaire, and also assessed for burnout and work satisfaction. Client stressors, agency resources, and time were significant predictors of work satisfaction. Just client stressors and time were significant predictors of burnout. Practitioners, agencies, and policymakers need to review systems in which social workers work so that social workers get more time for their duties, get to work in respectful and safe environments, and receive adequate supervision. Research and advocacy to improve clients’ access to resources will also reduce difficulties faced by social workers in carrying out their role. Agencies and policymakers can improve work satisfaction by maintaining dialogue with social workers on job autonomy and agency guidelines, and also investing in social workers’ remuneration and opportunities for career advancement.