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22 Jan 2010 13:49:38
Training in counselling skills could help members of the clergy better cope with the emotional demands of their work, a study at the University of Bedfordshire has found.
Professor of Occupational Health Psychology Gail Kinman (pictured) examined the levels of ‘emotional labour’, psychological health and job satisfaction of clergy in the UK.
The participants answered questions that measured the levels of effort involved in dealing with other people’s feelings. Levels of job satisfaction, psychological distress and levels of social support were also assessed and whether or not participants had been trained in interpersonal or counselling skills.
Professor Kinman, who presented her findings at a special occupational psychology conference, said: “While members of the clergy enjoy greater job satisfaction than people in many jobs they do have greater emotional demands. This can lead to extra stress which reduces job satisfaction.”
The study found that those who carried out more emotional labour tended to be more psychologically distressed and less satisfied with their work. Social support from friends, family and colleagues failed to protect participants from the negative impact of emotional labour. Evidence was found that clergy who were trained in counselling skills were better able to cope with the emotional demands they face.
Professor Kinman added: “Although the study found that members of the clergy had high levels of job satisfaction and psychological wellbeing relative to other professions, the results suggest that training in counselling skills could help individuals better cope with the emotional demands of their work. The findings also suggest that the clergy would benefit from more social support to help them manage this aspect of their job.”
The British Psychological Society Division of Occupational Psychology Annual Conference took place at the Brighton Holiday Inn from 13 – 15 January 2010.
Latest news» 2010» January» Counselling skills could help clergy
