Work Motivation and Burnout among Corporate Sector Employees: Emotional Regulation as Mediator

Abstract

Aim of Study: This study analyzes the relationship between burnout and work motivation with the mediating role of emotional regulation among corporate sector employees.

Research Methodology: Around a sample (N= 350) of corporate sector employees participated in the study among which there were males (n= 230) and females (n=120). The three measures used in this current study are Work Extrinsic and Intrinsic Motivation Scale (WEIMS), Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT), and Emotional Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ).

Results: The result findings show that there is a significant positive relationship between work motivation and emotional regulation (cognitive reappraisal). Moreover, the findings depicted that there is a significant negative relationship between work motivation and emotional regulation (expressive suppression). The findings depicted that there is a non-significant negative relationship between burnout and emotional regulation (cognitive reappraisal) and a positive relationship between burnout and emotional regulation (expressive suppression). Furthermore, the findings depicted that there is a significant negative relationship between Work Motivation and Burnout.

However, while exploring the mediational role of cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression, it was observed that cognitive reappraisal emerged as a more impactful mediator for the relationship between work motivation and burnout as compared to expressive suppression. 

Conclusion: This study has implications for the corporate sector to become more aware of work motivation, burnout, and emotional regulation so they can cater to the issue by filling the void.