Understanding Lawyer’s Burnout: The Intersection of Perfectionism, Ethical Preferences, and Self-compassion Strategies

Description

Page: 1765-1772

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17828702

Kashvi Tuli and Mitu Rohatgi (Department of Psychology, Indraprastha College for Women, University of Delhi, Delhi)

The study explored the predictive role of age, perfectionism, self-compassion, and ethical preferences in relation to burnout among lawyers. The sample consisted of 70 lawyers with an experience of 7 years or more in practice. Non-probability sampling techniques were used to generate the sample of participants. Further, statistical analysis of the data was made using the software SPSS, including descriptive statistics, correlational analysis, and linear regression. Contrary to the hypothesis, low levels of burnout and low scores in the respective dimensions (emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, & reduced personal accomplishment) were seen among the participants. Although age was not significantly predictive of burnout, a positive correlation between perfectionism and burnout was established, indicating that lawyers with more perfectionism are likely to suffer from increased burnout. Though not statistically significant, self-compassion and ethical preferences were found to negatively correlate with burnout, suggesting that the absence of self-compassion and adherence to ethical principles may mitigate burnout risk. Hence, it is suggested that a further study should be conducted, involving a larger sample size, for a stronger basis for the correlations established. In all, the overall results establish the need to focus on improving perfectionism as well as developing self-compassion and ethical integrity in order to prevent legal professionals from burnout.