ROLE OF SELF-CARE IN PROFESSIONAL BURNOUT AMONG CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

Abstract

Clinical psychologists are frequently exposed to high levels of emotional stress due to the nature of their work, placing them at elevated risk for professional burnout. Self-care has emerged as a protective mechanism to mitigate this burnout, but its application remains inconsistent due to personal and systemic barriers. This study aimed to explore the role of self-care in reducing professional burnout among clinical psychologists. It also examined how demographic variables such as gender, socioeconomic status, and family system influence these relationships. A cross-sectional correlational design was used. A purposive sample of clinical psychologists from Islamabad and Rawalpindi (N = 59) completed standardized measures: the Maslach Burnout Inventory, Self-Care Assessment. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, t-tests, and regression analysis. Findings revealed a significant negative correlation between self-care practices and burnout levels. Psychologists engaging in regular self-care reported lower emotional exhaustion and higher professional fulfillment. Demographic analyses indicated that female psychologists and those with higher socioeconomic status reported significantly greater self-care and job satisfaction. Self-care significantly negatively predicts professional burnout (β = -.284, p = .030), indicating that higher self-care is associated with lower burnout levels, indicating a statistically significance (p < .05). The hypothesis is accepted. Self-care is a vital protective factor against burnout among clinical psychologists. Lack of institutional support, stigma, and workload pressures continue to hinder its consistent practice. This research highlights the need for institutional policies that promote self-care through supportive work environments, peer support, and flexible scheduling. Incorporating self-care training into psychology curricula and continuous professional development may improve career sustainability and client care outcomes