Analysis of the Predictors and Consequential Factors of Emotional Exhaustion Among Social Workers: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Emotional exhaustion, a central component of burnout syndrome, affects social workers due to adverse work factors such as excessive workload, work–family conflict, and a lack of social support. The job demands–resources and conservation of resources models explain how chronic stress influences these professionals. Methods: A systematic review was carried out using the recommendations of the PRISMA guidelines as a reference for the selection and identification of studies and the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines, registering the protocol in PROSPERO. Cross-sectional studies published from 1 January 2019 to 30 September 2024 were included and five main databases―Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Medline, and PsycInfo—were used to search for specific studies written in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. Results: Of 361 initial records, 21 studies involving more than 24,000 social workers from diverse global settings were analyzed. The main risk factors identified were workload, work–family conflict, and work victimization. Resilience, self-care, and social support were highlighted as protective factors. Emotional exhaustion was associated with low job satisfaction, turnover intention, and mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Conclusions: Emotional burnout requires specific strategies, such as work flexibility, wellness programs, and organizational support. These measures can mitigate its impact, improving work–life balance and fostering resilience.