The Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence and Stress with Burnout Among Dentists in Kermanshah, Iran

Abstract

Background: Job burnout is a well-known human reaction to job-related pressures. Emotional intelligence and stress are among the most important factors predicting job burnout. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the relationship between emotional intelligence and stress with burnout among dentists in Kermanshah city. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study involved a statistical population of dentists in Kermanshah city, from which 114 individuals were selected using convenience sampling. The tools used included a demographic information form, the Schutte Emotional Intelligence Scale (1998), the Health and Safety Executive Stress Questionnaire (1990), and the Maslach Burnout Inventory. Data were analyzed using SPSS v.26.0. Descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentage were used to describe the research variables. Results: The results showed a significant negative correlation between emotional intelligence and stress (r = -0.438, P < 0.01), as well as between emotional intelligence and job burnout (r = -0.259, P < 0.01). There was also a significant positive correlation between stress and job burnout (r = 0.734, P < 0.01). Factors with significant effects on burnout and stress included age and work experience. Stress also mediated the relationship between emotional intelligence and job burnout. Conclusions: The results indicate a relationship between emotional intelligence, stress, and job burnout among dentists. Further studies should investigate other influential factors and their impact on job burnout.