Work

Intersectionality burnout inventory

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction Burnout research has emphasized generic job stressors while giving limited attention to how intersectional identities and environmental context jointly shape burnout risk. This study develops and validates the Intersectionality Burnout Inventory (IBI): A positively worded instrument assessing burnout risk across factors of environment and purpose, intersectionality and identity, and emotional capacity. Methods An IRB-approved, four-phase design combined qualitative and quantitative methods: Expert content validation (Phase I), focus groups emphasizing intersectionality and environment (Phase II), dimensionality testing via parallel analysis and EFA (Phase III; N = 340 MTurk employees), and CFA with construct validation (Phase IV; N = 227 employees at a U.S. health and wellbeing organization). Results EFA supported a three factor, 40 item structure explaining 52.26% of variance. CFA indicated acceptable fit (RMSEA = 0.06; SRMR = 0.07; CFI = 0.90; TLI = 0.87). After removing underperforming items, the final 31 item IBI showed strong internal consistency (α = 0.89 overall; subscales α = 0.83–0.90). Convergent and predictive validity were supported: Negative correlations with the Maslach Burnout Inventory ( r = −0.64) and the Burnout Assessment Tool ( r = −0.60), positive correlation with psychological wellbeing ( r = 0.43), and negative correlation with turnover intentions ( r = −0.47), all p < 0.001. Participants also reported that fully positive wording enhanced clarity and psychological safety. Discussion By integrating intersectionality and environmental context with established burnout dimensions consistent with Job Demands–Resources, Conservation of Resources, and stress-appraisal perspectives the IBI offers a psychometrically sound, practically useful diagnostic for multilevel burnout risk and targeted intervention.

Source: Frontiers in Organizational Psychology

DOI: 10.3389/forgp.2025.1708571

Authors: Paul J. Coppola, Leanne M. Tortez, Erika L. Heilman, Tuesday L. Cooper

Institution: William James College

Language: English

Topic: Stress and Burnout Research

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,353