Stress and burnout amongst Aborginal peoples : quantitative and qualitative inquiries

Abstract

The purpose of this research project is to provide an understanding from a Aboriginal perspective of stress and burnout and how these phenomena exist within a Aboriginal worldview and environment. Using quantitative and qualitative methodologies, the research project seeks to identify the current burnout levels and occupational health of Aboriginal individuals and to compare these findings with the existing results from non- Aboriginal workers in Canada. To aid in understanding these results a narrative account of Aboriginal stress and burnout experiences is also provided. This research project is unique in that it seeks to provide an outlook about Aboriginal people from the perspective of Aboriginal people. The findings suggest that Aboriginal burnout levels identified in this study are comparable and of a similar virulence to those experienced by non-Aboriginal workers both in Canadian and global work settings. Over a third of employed Aboriginals participating in this study showed high levels of depersonalization, lack of personal accomplishment, and emotional exhaustion. The qualitative interviews also revealed several causes of stress that are unique to working in a Aboriginal environment. Taken together the results identify that Aboriginal stress and burnout are important issues that need to be addressed at the individual, organizational, and community levels.