Hungarian adaptation of the coach burnout questionnaire

Abstract

Problem Statement: While numerous recent studies have examined burnout across various professions (e.g., nurses, doctors, athletes, and teachers), there is a significant research gap regarding burnout specifically among coaches. Coach burnout represents a critical concern within the sports field, as it has detrimental effects on both athletes and teams. This phenomenon can diminish a coach’s motivation, enthusiasm, performance, engagement in training, communication skills, and credibility, ultimately leading to a decline in overall effectiveness. Furthermore, a limited number of validated tools are available for assessing coach burnout. The Coach Burnout Questionnaire has been established as the most reliable instrument for evaluating specific dimensions of burnout that are not addressed by other scales. Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the factor structure of the Coach Burnout Questionnaire and to adapt it for use by Hungarian researchers and professionals. Additionally, this research aimed to compare the mental status of Hungarian coaches in terms of burnout with findings from international literature. Results: The questionnaire was administered to a sample of 289 coaches (196 females, 92 males; Mean age = 35.44 years, SD = 9.73, range: 21 to 64 years). The initial psychometric properties were identified using exploratory factor analysis, followed by confirmatory factor analysis. The internal consistency of each burnout-related factor in the Coach Burnout Questionnaire was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. The statistical evidence supported the proposed three-factor model, as demonstrated by the following measures: χ²/df ratio = 2.01, Root Mean Square Error of Approximation = 0.06. Cronbach’s alpha ranged from 0.65 to 0.89. However, the structure does not align precisely with the original version of the Coach Burnout Questionnaire for items 3, 5, 9, and 15. Conclusions: In summary, the psychometric properties of the Coach Burnout Questionnaire were found to be adequate for Hungarian coaches, allowing for its use in future investigations within Hungary. The findings of this study provide significant insights into burnout among Hungarian coaches. By identifying the distinct aspects of burnout, accounting for gender dynamics, and adapting measurement tools, organizations can develop comprehensive support strategies. These strategies aim not only to alleviate burnout but also to enhance job satisfaction, performance, and the overall well-being of the coaching workforce. As a result, sports organizations can cultivate a more resilient and effective coaching environment, benefiting athletes and contributing to the long-term success of sports programs.