Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the preferred coping resources within a sample of Child Welfare Services (CWS) social workers in Northern California, in their efforts to prevent burnout. Social workers provided their perceptions about what contributed to burnout and what types of supports should be offered within in their agency. Thirty-seven participants agreed to complete an on-line questionnaire on the topic. The study findings indicated that CWS social workers’ most preferred coping resources were talking to co-workers, talking to family, and exercising. A small percentage of CWS social workers utilized smoking and alcohol as a coping resource. CWS social workers stated that having a supportive supervisor or agency support was beneficial in the prevention of burnout. This study also found that one’s personal history of trauma may contribute to burnout and that those social workers with positive outlooks in life were less likely to burn out. Social workers were asked about burnout prevention. Social workers provided a multitude of responses, including a smaller caseload, supportive supervisors, and agency support. The study also suggested that CWS social workers with Bachelor Degrees were more receptive to receive education about burnout than those social workers with Master’s Degrees. The study further suggested that younger CWS social workers participated less in spiritual practices. The study’s secondary purpose was to maintain the subject of burnout and coping resources at the forefront. Alternative stress reducing activities should be utilized including modifying environmental factors that may be contributing to burnout. Social workers with positive dispositions should be strategically introduced into areas within the agency. Environmental changes will therefore begin from within the group rather than upper management.