Burnout syndrome according to psychological inflexibility in volleyball coaches

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between psychological inflexibility and burnout in volleyball coaches. A total of 187 federated coaches participated (72.7% male). Psychological inflexibility was measured using the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire; burnout was assessed using the Athlete Burnout Questionnaire. Women showed higher scores in psychological inflexibility, but after conducting a cluster analysis, results showed no gender‑based differences in psychological inflexibility clusters. However, female coaches were more likely to fall into high-burnout categories. After conducting a regression analysis, psychological inflexibility was shown to be a relevant predictor of exhaustion, with a 4.3 fold increased risk of developing high levels of burnout (OR = 4.328). Neither coaching qualifications nor competitive level were associated with burnout. These findings highlight a significant link between inflexibility and burnout, underscoring the need for further research in sports settings.