The mediating role of work engagement and burnout in the relationship between job characteristics and psychological distress among lawyers

Abstract

Research to date indicates that lawyers are disproportionately affected by psychological distress when compared to the general population, and other occupations. In this study, the Job Demands-Resources Model was used to identify job characteristics associated with psychological distress among lawyers, and to explore the mediating roles of burnout and work engagement. Legal staff (N = 94) from a large New Zealand law firm completed a survey on job characteristics, burnout (work-related fatigue), engagement and psychological distress. Regression analyses provide support for the strain and motivational pathways of the Job Demands-Resources Model. Results suggest a dual focus on reducing job demands related to burnout, and increasing the availability of job resources to enhance work engagement, may help combat psychological distress among lawyers. © This material is copyright to the New Zealand Psychological Society.