The influence of workplace stress: increasing human performance by mitigating burnout

Abstract

This study was conducted to gain a better understanding of the effects of secondary trauma stress (STS) and compassion fatigue in contributing to the overall workplace stress and burnout of probation and parole agents. A literature review conducted by the researcher identified the correlations of the effects of STS and compassion fatigue in other human service fields with XYZ Units. A burnout survey was implemented to identify quantitative data for burnout and interviews were conducted to collect additional data about the extent of the underlying factors of stress and burnout. The results of this small sample research determined there are significant factors of compassion fatigue contributing to high levels of stress/burnout of probation and parole agents in XYZ Units.