Burnout Syndrome among Lebanese Pediatric Dentists: An Epidemiological Study

Background: Burnout is the result of unsuccessful management of chronic work related stress. The syndrome is characterized by three dimensions: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and reduced personal accomplishment. It is considered a risk to dentists where they face various types of stressors including constant time pressure and low patient appreciation. Additional sources of pressure are present in pediatric dentistry such as uncooperative and fearful patients.

Aim of the Study: The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of burnout among Lebanese pediatric dentists and to analyze various factors that may influence the appearance of the syndrome.

Materials and Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was performed among 117 Lebanese pediatric dentists who answered a two-part questionnaire. The first part consisted of demographic data and personal information. The second is the Maslach Burnout Inventory Human Services Survey for Medical Personnel used for the detection of the syndrome. Statistical analysis was performed to determine burnout’s prevalence and to analyze its correlation with various variables.

Results: High emotional exhaustion was noted in 34.5% of participants, 15.5% had high depersonalization and 47.4% had reduced personal accomplishment. Lebanese pediatric dentists with little professional experience had high emotional exhaustion scores (P= .01). Depersonalization was lower in exclusive pediatric dentists (P= .04). Furthermore, personal accomplishment was higher when respondents exercised moderately (P= .04). The prevalence of overall burnout was found 3.4% with male pediatric dentists experiencing more burnout than females (P= .03).

Conclusion: Burnout in its three dimensions’ model was experienced by few pediatric dentists in Lebanon with gender predominance towards males.