Psychological hardiness and burnout in the context of post-traumatic stress disorder among South African first responders

Abstract

Abstract Background: Exposure to traumatic events is an inherent aspect of first responder work, placing individuals at heightened risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and burnout. This study examined the relationship between PTSD symptoms and two key dimensions of burnout—emotional exhaustion and depersonalization—among South African first responders, with a particular focus on the mediating role of psychological hardiness. Methods: A total of 429 participants (police officers and paramedics) completed the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), the Short Hardiness Scale, and the Emotional Exhaustion and Depersonalization subscales of the Maslach Burnout Inventory. Results: Path analysis revealed that the control and challenge dimensions of hardiness partially mediated the relationship between PTSD and burnout. While higher control was associated with lower burnout, higher challenge was unexpectedly associated with greater burnout. This suggests that different hardiness dimensions play distinct roles in the PTSD–burnout relationship. In contrast, the commitment dimension did not mediate this relationship. Conclusion: These findings highlight the nuanced and multidimensional role of hardiness in trauma-exposed populations and underscore the importance of resilience-focused interventions that enhance perceived control and constructive engagement with challenge to mitigate burnout in high-risk occupational groups.