MINDFULNESS, OCCUPATIONAL STRESS AND JOB BURNOUT IN TRAFFIC POLICE OFFICERS

Abstract

The aim of this study to examine the relationship between mindfulness, occupational stress and job burnout in traffic police. This study contributes to find out the ways in which mindfulness can help traffic police reduce stress and avoid burnout in this high pressure
occupation. A quantitative methodology with correlational research design was used, comprising a sample of 100 traffic police officers using purposive sampling. Statistical analysis includes descriptive statistics, Pearson product moment correlation and regression analyses were used to examine the relationship between the study variables, also independent sample t-test was applied to measure the gender difference. The following assessment measures were used: a demographic information sheet, Mindful Attention Awareness Scale, Operational Police Stress Questionnaire, and Maslach Burnout Inventory Scale. The results revealed that job burnout and occupational stress had excellent internal consistency, whereas the measure for mindfulness showed fair internal consistency. The study found a positive correlation between mindfulness and job burnout among traffic police officers, indicating that increased mindfulness is associated with higher level of burnout. On the other hand, occupational stress was positively correlated with job burnout, confirming that more stress leads to more burnout. Both mindfulness and occupational stress emerged as predictors of job
burnout. The results also indicate that there were no differences between men and women in terms of work stress and burnout. By adopting mindfulness programs customized for traffic police, we can enhance their coping strategies, lower job-related stress, and decrease burnout. This can ultimately contribute to a more effective and safer traffic management system going forward.