An adapted model of burnout for educators in South Africa

Abstract

The objectives in this study were to determine the psychometric properties of an adapted version of the Maslach Burnout Inventory ( General Survey (MBI-GS) for South African educators in different language groups and to determine the differences between burnout in different demographic groups. A cross-sectional survey design was used. Stratified random samples (N = 1 170) of educators in the North West Province in South Africa were taken. An adapted version of the MBI-GS and a biographical questionnaire were administered. Structural equation modelling confirmed a three-factor model of burnout, consisting of Exhaustion, Mental Distance, and Professional Efficacy. All three factors showed acceptable internal consistencies and construct equivalence for two language groups. The results showed that practically significant differences exist between aspects of burnout in demographic groups.