Self-compassion in welfare professionals: Implications for occupational well-being and client care

Abstract

Compassion toward clients constitutes a vital aspect of welfare professionals’ work. However, few studies have examined the factors promoting compassion for clients and the associated outcomes. The present study explored the relationship between compassion toward clients and occupational well-being among welfare professionals. We also investigated individual and organizational consequences of occupational well-being, including mental health, turnover intentions, and job performance. This study included a sample of 370 welfare professionals. Structural equation modeling indicated that compassion towards clients enhanced occupational well-being and job performance. Occupational well-being is also directly associated with reduced turnover intentions and enhanced job performance. Furthermore, self-compassion influenced occupational well-being and secondary symptoms. These findings highlight the importance of cultivating compassion in welfare professionals.