An Empirical Study of Burnout Among Social Workers in Public Welfare Institutions in Lagos and Rivers States

Occupational burnout among social workers is a pervasive professional challenge that compromises service quality, staff retention, and practitioner wellbeing, yet it remains insufficiently studied within the Nigerian social work context. This study empirically investigates burnout prevalence and its predictors among social workers in public welfare institutions in Lagos and Rivers States. A descriptive cross-sectional design is employed with a sample of 200 qualified social workers selected through stratified sampling from welfare agencies in both states. The Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey is administered alongside a structured questionnaire on work conditions and organisational support. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis are used. The study finds moderately high levels of emotional exhaustion and depersonalisation, with reduced personal accomplishment reported across a substantial proportion of respondents. High caseloads, poor remuneration, limited supervision, and absence of institutional self-care policies are the strongest predictors of burnout. Social workers with access to regular supervision and peer support show significantly lower burnout scores. Drawing on the job demands-resources model, the study argues that burnout is a systemic rather than individual failure. Recommendations include mandating clinical supervision in all public welfare institutions, implementing caseload standards, providing employee assistance programmes, and investing in organisational culture change that prioritises practitioner wellbeing. Keywords: burnout, social workers, public welfare institutions, job demands-resources model, occupational health