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How Workplace Friendships Impact Burnout among Social Care Leaders: A Job Demands-Resources Framework Analysis

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  • Schutzmann Réka

    (Semmelweis University, Faculty of Health and Public Services, Institute of Mental Health, Doctoral Division of Mental Health Sciences, Budapest, Hungary)

  • Kozák Anna

    (Semmelweis University, Faculty of Health and Public Services, Institute of Mental Health, Doctoral Division of Mental Health Sciences, Budapest, Hungary)

  • Soltész-Várhelyi Klára

    (Institute of Psychology, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest, Hungary)

  • Nistor Katalin

    (Semmelweis University, Faculty of Health and Public Services, Institute of Mental Health, Doctoral Division of Mental Health Sciences, Budapest, Hungary)

  • Dávid Beáta

    (Semmelweis University, Faculty of Health and Public Services, Institute of Mental Health, Doctoral Division of Mental Health Sciences, Budapest, Hungary)

Abstract

Background and purpose The purpose of this study, guided by the Job Demands-Resources Model, is to investigate the role of workplace friendships in mitigating burnout. This research is notable for its unique focus on a relatively rare sample: social care leaders. These individuals play a crucial role in shaping and influencing social services, making their insights invaluable for understanding the challenges and opportunities within this sector. Methods Using a cross-sectional and quantitative design, data were collected from a convenience sample of Hungarian social care leaders, including sociodemographic information, the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ II), and professional core discussion network (pCDN) questions. The analysis of 449 Hungarian social care leaders employs a saturated model of moderated mediation (controlling for age and gender) to examine how stress mediates the relationship between quantitative demands and burnout and how workplace friendships moderate this mediation effect. Results The results indicate that stress significantly mediates the relationship between quantitative demands and burnout, with workplace friendships acting as a buffer under moderate stress levels. Having at least one workplace friend reduces the impact of stress on burnout; however, this protective effect diminishes under higher stress intensities. Conclusions These findings underscore the importance of fostering quality and balanced workplace friendships rather than merely increasing the number of supportive relationships. Given the systemic challenges in Hungarian social care, these insights are particularly relevant for leaders seeking to improve workforce resilience and well-being.

Suggested Citation

  • Schutzmann Réka & Kozák Anna & Soltész-Várhelyi Klára & Nistor Katalin & Dávid Beáta, 2025. "How Workplace Friendships Impact Burnout among Social Care Leaders: A Job Demands-Resources Framework Analysis," Organizacija, Sciendo, vol. 58(3), pages 251-266.
    • Handle: RePEc:vrs:organi:v:58:y:2025:i:3:p:251-266:n:1003
    DOI: 10.2478/orga-2025-0015
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jones, Robert G. & Stout, Tracy, 2015. "Policing Nepotism and Cronyism Without Losing the Value of Social Connection," Industrial and Organizational Psychology, Cambridge University Press, vol. 8(1), pages 2-12, March.
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