Perceptions of Burnout Among Black Pastors of Small Churches: A Phenomenological Study
Loading...
Authors
Meeting name
Sponsors
Date
Journal Title
Format
Subject
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the roles and responsibilities of Black pastors and how these factors might contribute to burnout. Four methods of data collection were used: (a) surveys (to assess burnout symptoms), (b) observations and (c) documents (to provide insight into a typical day of a pastor), and (d) interviews (to gain an in-depth understanding of pastoral experiences). Of the twenty-five participants who completed the Human Services Survey, none met burnout criteria. Findings from observations, documents, and interviews suggest that while pastors serve in various roles (e.g., spouse, counselor) and have many ministerial responsibilities (e.g., teaching Bible study, visiting sick members), they prioritize personal and family time over professional tasks. Transcendental phenomenology, a qualitative analysis, was used to understand the essence of meaning of burnout among five interview participants. Four themes were identified from the data, which allowed the essence of meaning of burnout to be constructed: Burnout is Emotionally Tiring, Ministerial Demands and Rewards, Cultural Aspects, and Personal Before Professional. Findings suggest that Black pastors are subject to experiencing emotional, physical, and spiritual fatigue; that denomination-specific tasks and cultural factors (i.e., age, race and gender) add to the uniqueness and challenges of their pastoral identity; and that the choice to prioritize personal life over professional life ensures the stability in their personal relationships with God and their families.
Table of Contents
Introduction and review of the literature -- Methodology -- Data analysis -- Results -- Discussion -- Appendix A. Recruitment Letter-Survey -- Appendix B. Informed Consent-Survey -- Appendix C. Demographic Form -- Appendix D. Human Services Survey -- Appendix E. Recruitment Letter-Interview -- Appendix F. Informed Consent-Interview -- Appendix G. Weekly Schedule Form -- Appendix H. Interview Questions -- Appendix I. Mental Health Resources
DOI
PubMed ID
Degree
Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy)