Prevalence of burnout syndrome in the Portuguese Army.

Abstract

Burnout, characterized by Emotional Exhaustion (EE), Depersonalization (DP), and Reduced Personal Accomplishment (PA), is a significant occupational hazard. Although extensively studied in other contexts, its prevalence and predictors among Portuguese military personnel have not been explored. This study investigates burnout prevalence and its sociodemographic and organizational predictors within the Portuguese Army. A total of 437 active-duty personnel completed the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS) alongside sociodemographic and organizational questionnaires. Results revealed that 2.3% of participants exhibited burnout across all dimensions, while 25.2% demonstrated engagement (low scores in all dimensions). High EE, DP, and PA were reported by 35.7%, 13.7%, and 45.5% of respondents, respectively. Logistic regression identified key burnout predictors: feeling undervalued by superiors, being enlisted, and being single significantly increased burnout risk. These findings align with the Job Demands-Resources model, highlighting how low support, high workload, and job insecurity exacerbate burnout, while marital support and stability mitigate it. Despite relatively low burnout prevalence, the study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions. Promoting supportive leadership, recognition, and preventive strategies is essential to improve well-being and operational performance in the military.