Professional Recognition at Work: The Protective Role of Esteem, Respect, and Care for Burnout Among Employees.

Abstract

The present research systematically investigates the role of recognition experiences at work as a protective factor for burnout. In two cross-sectional studies (N = 328 and N = 220) with employees we measured via online questionnaires three forms of recognition (achievement-based social esteem, equality-based respect, and need-based care) from coworkers and supervisors as predictors and burnout among employees as outcome. Using multiple regression analyses, Study 1 provided initial evidence that both supervisor and coworker recognition were negatively associated with employees' burnout. Study 2 further demonstrated that whereas respect experiences were especially crucial for lowering emotional exhaustion, care was primarily linked to reduced depersonalization and esteem to heightened personal accomplishment. We discuss how positive recognition experiences can be fostered in organizations in order to buffer the negative effects burnout can cause.