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RESEARCH PRODUCT

Effects of emotional skills training to prevent burnout syndrome in schoolteachers

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Abstract Introduction and objectives Work-related stress and emotional distress among schoolteachers are considered a serious concern in the educational context. Research has shown the beneficial effects of emotional abilities on burnout and psychological problems. Based on the Ability Model of Emotional Intelligence, we designed an emotional-skills training for school teachers intended to promote mental health and well-being. Materials and methods The participants were 340 teachers (74% women), assigned randomly to an experimental and control group. Data on burnout syndrome, emotional symptoms (depression, anxiety, stress), self-esteem and life-satisfaction were collected in three waves: before the training (T1), after the training (T2), and at six-month follow-up (T3). The training program consisted of five two-hour sessions, carried out during three months in groups of 15–20 teachers. Multivariate covariance analyses were carried out, followed by multiple hierarchical regression models. Results Results indicated that teachers who participated in the training program reduced burnout syndrome and emotional symptoms, while incrementing their self-esteem and life-satisfaction in comparison with the control group. These results at T2 were partially maintained at T3. Conclusions In light of these findings, burnout prevention programs based on emotional intelligence should be included in teachers’ professional development plans in order to promote their health and well-being.