Yoga as a Burnout Preventative for Psychology Graduate Students

Psychology graduate students experience unique stressors resulting from academic tasks and regular exposure to emotional distress (Stratton, Kellaway, & Rottini, 2007). Pervasive stress may eventually lead to burnout: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment (Maslach, 1986). Burnout impinges on academic performance and quality of services provided to clients (Maslach, 1982). It is imperative that this population practice self-care regularly to prevent the state of burnout. Yoga encompasses physical postures and breathing exercises that facilitate mindfulness. This project incorporates a selective literature review that examines the research revolving around the psychological and physical benefits of emotional well-being resulting from the practice of yoga. I apply this research to develop a theory of self-care for graduate students in psychology that practicing yoga may serve as a resource for preventing burnout in graduate trainees. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]