The Impact of Lawyers’ Personality Traits on Occupational Burnout

Özet

Purpose – Lawyers, who operate under intense professional responsibilities, maintain constant interpersonal interactions, and work in highly stressful environments, are at a considerable risk of experiencing occupational burnout. One key factor influencing burnout is personality traits. Enhancing individuals’ awareness of their own personality characteristics, identifying which traits contribute to burnout, and understanding the direction and strength of these effects are essential for reducing the risk of burnout. This study aims to investigate the impact of lawyers’ personality traits on their levels of occupational burnout.
Design/methodology/approach – This study utilized a relational survey design, collecting data through a structured questionnaire. The instrument consisted of three sections: the Maslach Burnout Inventory, the Five-Factor Personality Traits Inventory, and a demographic information form. The research population included lawyers practicing in the city center of Adana. Using convenience and snowball sampling methods, valid responses suitable for analysis were obtained from 267 lawyers. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) as well as validity and reliability tests of the measurement scales. Regression analyses were performed to test the study hypotheses.
Results – The results revealed that lawyers’ personality traits significantly influence their levels of burnout. Specifically, Neuroticism was found to positively predict emotional exhaustion and reduce personal accomplishment, both sub-dimensions of burnout. Conversely, Agreeableness was shown to negatively predict emotional exhaustion and depersonalization. Conscientiousness negatively predicted depersonalization and reduced personal accomplishment. Additionally, Extraversion and Openness to Experience were found to negatively predict reduced personal accomplishment.
Discussion – The findings indicate that personality traits play a crucial role in shaping the occupational burnout levels of lawyers. While Neuroticism exacerbates burnout, traits such as Openness to Experience, Extraversion, Conscientiousness, and Agreeableness serve as protective factors that help mitigate its effects. Raising lawyers’ awareness of how their personality traits influence burnout can contribute to more effective self-regulation and coping strategies. Furthermore, law firms and bar associations should consider these personality traits when designing supportive work environments that foster resilience and reduce the risk of burnout.