[Generation differences among surgeons in job satisfaction and burnout].

Abstract

Introduction and objective: The examination of job satisfaction and burnout is crucial in high-stress professions such as surgery. The aim of our study is to understand the generational and demographic differences in job satisfaction and burnout among general and thoracic surgeons in Hungary. Method: Between October 1, 2024, and December 1, 2024, we conducted an online, anonymous questionnaire survey among 97 Hungarian general and thoracic surgeons to assess their levels of job satisfaction and burnout. Job satisfaction was measured using the Hungarian version of the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire, which evaluates intrinsic, extrinsic, and overall satisfaction dimensions. Burnout was assessed with the shortened version of the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory, which covers exhaustion and disengagement dimensions. Results: Regarding job satisfaction, Baby Boomer generation members gave statistically significantly higher scores on intrinsic factors (p = 0.041). No statistically significant differences were observed among Generation X and Y members (intrinsic: p = 0.055, extrinsic: p = 0.19, overall: p = 0.25, and intrinsic: p = 0.073, extrinsic: p = 0.36, overall: p = 0.39, respectively). The lowest scores were reported by Generation Z members, with a statistically significant difference in intrinsic factors (p = 0.023). A statistically significant relationship was found between age and intrinsic (p<0.001) and overall (p = 0.028) job satisfaction, as well as between years spent at the workplace and intrinsic satisfaction (p = 0.019), and years in the specialty and intrinsic satisfaction (p = 0.011). Residents also showed statistically significantly lower scores on intrinsic (p = 0.006) and overall (p = 0.043) job satisfaction questions. No statistically significant differences were observed in exhaustion and disengagement between the Baby Boomer (p = 0.72 and p = 0.277), Generation X (p = 0.49 and p = 0.086), and Generation Y (p = 0.28 and p = 0.14) groups. However, Generation Z members gave statistically significantly lower scores for exhaustion (p = 0.003), although the difference in disengagement was not significant (p = 0.21). A significant correlation was found between age and exhaustion (p = 0.002) and between resident status and exhaustion (p = 0.002). Conclusion: Younger surgeons and members of Generation Z experience higher levels of job dissatisfaction and certain dimensions of burnout, highlighting the need for differentiated leadership strategies. The findings emphasize the importance of considering generational needs and integrating younger generations into future surgical workplaces. Orv Hetil. 2025; 166(13): 483–493.