Meta-analysis of the Effectiveness of Group Programs for Reducing Burnout Among Human Services Professionals

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of group programs designed to reduce burnout among human services professionals in Korea by using meta-analysis. A total of 65 studies were selected, and 212 effect sizes were calculated using a random-effects model. The findings are summarized as follows: First, the overall mean effect size was found to be .89, indicating a large effect. Second, regarding moderator variables, programs were most effective when implemented for individuals exceeding clinical burnout thresholds, consisting of 16 to 20 group members, held two times or more per week, excluding homework, including session reflection sharing, and based on ACT. Third, regarding dependent variables, programs targeting only burnout were more effective than those addressing multiple outcomes, but the difference was not statistically significant. Based on these results, implications for the development of group programs aimed at reducing burnout among human services professionals and suggestions for future research were discussed.