Prevalence and predictors of burnout syndrome among Italian psychologists following the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study

Introduction: The main objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and predictors of Burnout Syndrome (BOS) among Italian psychologists following the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic. As a secondary objective, geographical differences in the prevalence of BOS symptoms were investigated across regional macro-areas in this category of workers. Methods: Using a non-probabilistic convenience sample, four-hundred sixty-eight participants responded to an online survey which included psychometric valid questions from the Maslach Burnout Inventory and The Big Five Inventory-10. Descriptive and inferential statistics were utilized to analyze the data. Results: The overall prevalence of BOS in the study sample was nearly 17%, although no statistically significant differences were noted among volunteer (17.5%) and non-volunteer group (16.2%). Statistically significant differences were found in the Depersonalization (DP) levels. Prevalence of BOS varied across Italian regional macro areas. Neuroticism was positively associated with Emotional Exhaustion (EE) and DP. Agreeableness was negatively associated with EE and DP. Openness was negatively associated with DP. The only personality trait that did not reach any significance level across BOS dimensions was Conscientiousness. Telematic approach was positively associated with DP. Discussion and Conclusions: In Italy, during the COVID-19 pandemic, psychologists who offer services in a volunteering setting are at high risk of developing BOS. Policymakers should develop guidelines for training and prevention programs to contain BOS and preserving the quality of care, through workplace health promotion and occupational health surveillance programs.