Enhancing Vocational Services Through Support of Direct Care Staff for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
Abstract
This mixed-method cohort study focused on supporting direct support professionals through burnout education modules. Burnout is a phycological phenomenon characterized by mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion in response to chronic stress in the workplace. Direct support professionals (DSP) provide services that include independent living and vocational skill education to adults with intellectual disabilities. Burnout has negative impacts on work quality, efficiency, and can led to high turnover rates. This project aimed to provide DSP’s with resources to mitigate the risk of burnout. The study utilized semi-structured interviews to help guide the development of education modules for staff. Based on findings from interviews, the education modules focused on resources to complete the stress cycle and establish boundaries in the workplace. Participants took a pre-survey prior to being introduced to education modules, and once modules were completed, they filled out a post-survey. Data analysis shows participants gained knowledge about burnout and were willing to continue to use stress coping strategies. Additionally, results showed a slight increase in burnout symptoms. This study demonstrates the need for further research and resources to mitigate burnout among direct support professionals.