Burnout Syndrome in Assisting Professions

This Bachelor work deals with the burnout syndrome in assisting professions focusing especially on the personality of the special educator. The introductory part defines the concept of the burnout syndrome and describes its historical development. It also presents the risk factors participating in its origin, approaches the symptoms that may occur during the burnout syndrome and distinguishes it from other mental conditions. The issue concerning the possible prevention and treatment of the already identified burnout forms also an important part of the work. Finally, it deals with the characteristics of assisting professions and with the occupation of the special educator. The practical part is devoted to the research of the burnout syndrome at special educators who have had at least ten years of experience. It is based on qualitative research methods conducted through the semi-structured interview and completed by questionnaire enquiries. The task of this section is to bring current information about the situation concerning the burnout syndrome among special educators. The aim is to find out originating signs of the burnout in the above mentioned profession, and how workers realise their possible symptoms. Not least, the aim was to find out foreknowledge of special educators about possible prevention of the burnout syndrome. The research results showed that foreknowledge of special educators about the burnout syndrome is at a good level. The research also revealed that the symptoms of the burnout appear in cases of individual respondents but the risk is low-level. It was also shown that the respondents are aware of their symptoms. The only danger can be seen in the prevention of this phenomenon because the foreknowledge in this course is not sufficient. This Bachelor thesis can be used to inform both future and existing special educators about the burnout syndrome and its possible consequences. Furthermore, the work could serve as the basis for the burnout prevention or as an outline of treatment options for the burnout syndrome which has already developed