Burnout Syndrome (BS) is a psychosocial phenomenon that occurs as a chronic response to interpersonal stressors in work-related situations. This qualitative study aimed to explore the knowledge of teachers about the BS and to comprehend the elements used to interpret this process. Six Elementary School teachers participated in the study, and a semi-structured interview protocol was used in three investigations axes. Data was analyzed through content analysis, from six categories defined a priori, generating new sub-categories analyzed according to the BS theoretical model proposed by Gil-Monte. The results pointed that, in spite of some approximations to the theoretical model, considering the BS as a type of stress or depression indicates an important gap in knowledge, just as not naming it or not identifying it in its initial stages contributes to its aggravation. Relational aspects and organizational characteristics are linked to triggering factors, and the meaning and characteristics of a job, realistic expectations and social support are perceived as protective factors of the syndrome. The fact of considering prevention measures centered on the individual and on the organization shows a need for the expansion of the view to the macro social sphere. Understanding the job, its meaning and impacts, based on the experience and knowledge of the workers, constituted an indispensable teaching to deepen the comprehension about the BS and, thus, to propose efficient alternatives of prevention and health promotion.
Burnout Syndrome; occupational health; teachers
