Intention to Quit as Mediator in Occupational Stress and Burnout Relationship

Purpose: The objective of this study was to identify relationship between occupational stress and burnout with the mediating role of intention to quit. Theoretical framework: Research focusing on the relationship between occupational stress and burnout with the mediating role of intention to quit among Malaysian firefighters is scarce, highlighting the need for further exploration in this area. There is a need to identify the reaction and negative effects of occupational stress. Design/methodology/approach: A quantitative research design was employed to achieve this, utilizing a cross-sectional survey approach with self-administered questionnaires distributed to firefighters as participants. Burnout was assessed using the Maslach Burnout Inventory - General Survey (MBI-GS), the Sources of Occupational Stress (SOOS-14) scale was used to measure occupational stress and the intention to quit was evaluated using a dedicated scale for measuring intention to quit. 254 questionnaires were collected from firefighters working at the fire station around Melaka, Malaysia. Findings: The direct relationship hypothesis test results show that occupational stress has a positive relationship with the intention to quit but is negatively related to burnout. The intention to quit is positively related to burnout and its dimensions. The findings from the hypothesis tests on the mediating variables confirm the crucial role of the intention to quit as a mediator in the relationship between occupational stress and burnout. Research, Practical & Social implications: We suggest future research to insert coping strategies as prevention to moderate the relationship between occupational stress and intention to quit. Originality/value: This study provides empirical evidence that although occupational stress has no positive relationship with burnout, the intention to quit is a significant mediator that amplifies the impact of prolonged occupational stress on burnout.