Date of Submission

2005

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

Department Chair

Robert A. DiTomasso, Ph.D., ABPP

First Advisor

Bruce Zahn, Ed.D., ABPP, Chairperson

Second Advisor

Robert A. DiTomasso, Ph.D., ABPP

Third Advisor

Thomas Hardie, Ed.D.

Abstract

As a means of gathering more data to support the utility of cognitive-behavioral therapy with individuals experiencing burnout, this current study is designed to identify whether or not distorted thinking and dysfunctional attitudes are present in registered nurses who are experiencing burnout and whether or not they differ in registered nurses not experiencing burnout. A mail survey to a random sample of certified critical care registered nurses working in hospital settings was conducted. Participants provided basic demographic data and completed the Maslach Burnout Inventory, the Inventory of Cognitive Distortions, and the Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale. In addition, participants completed measures of intent to leave or to stay, job satisfaction, and the work environment. A descriptive correlation design was employed. Results supported the relationship between burnout, cognitive distortions, and dysfunctional attitudes. Moreover, results demonstrate that magnification is the distortion most strongly linked with burnout. Job satisfaction, intent to leave or to stay, and various measures of the workplace environment by and large were shown to be significantly correlated with burnout, cognitive distortions, and dysfunctional attitudes. Finally, results support the validity and reliability of the Inventory of Cognitive Distortions.

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