Date of Award

12-2003

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Dr. Ben Atchison

Second Advisor

Dr. David Orchanian

Third Advisor

Dr. Debra Hazel

Access Setting

Masters Thesis-Open Access

Abstract

This study examined the level of job satisfaction among occupational therapists working in the geriatric setting in the state of Michigan. The purpose of this study was to determine if burnout exists among occupational therapists working in a geriatric setting. Questionnaires from 29 therapists who work in a·geriatric setting were analyzed. The majority of the respondents reveled they are not burned out, but do report at least one sign of stress within their job. The most common forms of stress were treating difficult diagnoses, excessive paperwork, excessive caseload, increased productivity expectations, the lack of respect for occupational therapy, and the lack of understanding of occupational therapy. These findings suggest that therapists are feeling stressed out at work, even though many of the causes of stress can be fixed by educating others about occupational therapy and restructuring the rehabilitation department.

Share

COinS