Association between fear of future workplace violence and burnout among pediatricians in China with psychological resilience as a moderator

Abstract

Background: Fear of future workplace violence can lead to withdrawal intentions and poor physical and mental health. However, no study has focused on fear of future workplace violence (FFWV) among pediatricians, who may be at high risk. This study explored the relationship between FFWV and burnout, and the moderating effect of psychological resilience between this relationship. Methods: We recruited 413 pediatricians from 26 specialized and general hospitals in China’s Shandong and Ningxia provinces from August 2021 to April 2022. FFWV was measured using the Fear of Future Violence at Work Scale. Burnout was assessed using the Maslach Burnout Inventory. Psychological resilience was measured using the 10 items Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale. A multiple linear regression analysis was used to investigate the relationship between FFWV and burnout. SPSS PROCESS macro was used to examine the moderating effect of psychological resilience on this relationship. Results: About 85.7% pediatricians experienced a medium or high level of fear. FFWV was significantly and positively associated with emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment (B=0.23, SE=0.39, P< 0.001; B=0.06, SE=0.13, P < 0.001; B=0.17, SE=0.03, P < 0.001, respectively). The interaction effects of FFWV and psychological resilience on emotional exhaustion (B=-0.008, 95% CI: -0.001 to -0.004) and cynicism (B=-0.003, 95% CI: -0.005 to -0.001) were statistically significant. The protective effect conforms to the ‘protective-stabilizing’ model. Low levels of FFWV were associated with low levels of emotional exhaustion and cynicism, and increased personal accomplishment. Conclusions: Psychological resilience training may be beneficial for pediatricians in preventing high levels of burnout resulting from FFWV.