Correlation between Self-compassion and Level of Burnout among Special Educators in Bangalore, India

Abstract

The study conducted looks into the correlation of self-compassion and level of burnout among special educators. The purpose of this study is to explore a possible relation between the two variables in order to have a better understanding of burnout among special educators. This study explores the possibility of utilizing self-compassion as a protective factor against burnout. Selfcompassion is a concept that has been borrowed from Buddhist philosophy which has found to reduce stress. This would contribute to the well-being of special educators which in turn facilitates better quality service to students with special needs. The study is focused on the special educators in Bangalore city, India. A special educator has to cater to the needs of their students with patience and individualized attention. With limitations to psychological resources, special educators experience more stress on a regular basis. There is a need to retain qualified special educators as an increasing number of special educators migrate to the general education setting. This study was conducted on 56 special educators in Bangalore through purposive and snowball sampling technique. The tools for assessment used are the Self-Compassion Scale and the Maslach Burnout InventoryEducators Survey. A correlational study between selfcompassion, the dimensions of which are self-kindness, common humanity, mindfulness, self-judgement, over identification and isolation and the level of burnout and its dimensionsemotional exhaustion, depersonalisation and personal accomplishment, was conducted. The outcomes of this study showed that there was a significant correlation between mindfulness and personal accomplishment. Increasing one‟s awareness of their own experience can bring about a sense of competence in their professional life. It allows special educators to realize their contribution towards the education of their students. This can facilitate in retention of special educators in the field. It was also found that an increased feeling of isolation can influence emotional exhaustion and the level of burnout. By receiving more support from institutions as well as catering to the well-being of special educators can decrease attrition rates. Keywords— Self-compassion, special education, burnout, retention, Bangalore, India.