ABSTRACT:  Caregivers dealing with traumatized victims or mental health clients are at increased risk for developing the same symptoms as persons who are exposed directly to the trauma.
This research project aimed at identifying psychological health problems encountering caregivers assisting clients in the UAE. The research examined the presence of secondary traumatic stress, general distress, anxiety, depression, somatic symptoms, social dysfunction, and burnout, and their relationships to coping strategies and job satisfaction in 502 Emirati and non-Emirati caregivers who work in schools, hospitals, charity institutes, and welfare centers. Measures used in this study were the Professional Quality of Life Questionnaire (ProQOL), The General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), The Maslach Burnout Inventory Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS), Endler and Parker’s Coping Inventory, and structured interviews. Results showed high prevalence of burnout and that problem focused coping and compassion satisfaction were positively associated better psychological health. Emption-focused c and distraction coping were negatively related to psychological wellbeing. There were also significant gender differences in somatic symptoms, depersonalization, and distraction coping. It was concluded that the work environments need to be improved for caregivers and efforts should to be directed towards professional development.
Download report