THE ROLE OF SUPPORT IN ALLEVIATING STRESS AMONG NURSING ASSISTANTS

This paper provides a direct test of the buffering hypothesis that the negative effects of stressors (measured as burden, burnout, and perceived job pressure) on nursing assistants working in long-term care institutions are moderated by social support (at work and external to work). The buffering hypothesis was not confirmed, though some support for a main effects view was found. Social support at work, specifically training to work with residents with cognitive impairment, and support from family and friends can assist nursing assistants in dealing with burnout and perceived job pressure. However, major steps in alleviating burden, burnout, and perceived job pressure must be to decrease or change the workload and provide rewards on the job.