Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To investigate the prevalence of burnout profiles and their contributing factors in European neurology residents, junior neurologists, and research fellows. METHODS: The members of the Resident and Research Fellow Section (RRFS) of the European Academy of Neurology were surveyed using standardized instruments for burnout, job satisfaction, social support, depression, work-related fatigue, work-life integration, and impact of life events, from September 1, 2020, to January 6, 2021. RESULTS: The response rate was 23.1% (332 responders of 1,439 contacted RRFS members); the median age of participants 30 years, with 61.5% being female. Our analysis revealed that 73.9% of the responders showed a perturbation in the Maslach Burnout Inventory dimensions, thus fulfilling the criteria for a dysfunctional phenotype within the burnout spectrum: burnout (22.6%), overextended (26.1%), ineffective (21.0%), and disengaged (4.1%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that elevated number of night shifts per month, work-related fatigue, and low professional satisfaction are independent risk factors for burnout. Being a certified neurologist, working in an academic environment, and a higher job satisfaction are associated with the engaged profile, a productive state characterized by high energy, strong involvement, and a sense of efficacy. DISCUSSION: Burnout experience is highly prevalent among neurology residents, junior neurologists, and research fellows in Europe. The profile-based approach in this survey captures the multifaceted nature of burnout experience, therefore highlighting mitigating strategies that can be tailored to the distinct dysfunctional burnout profile.