The Impact of the Quality of Supervisory Relationships on Burnout in Child Protection Social Workers: Examination Through an Attachment Theory Lens

Abstract

This report provides an overview of a research project conducted by student researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in partnership with the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD). The study examined how supervisory relationships influence the onset and severity of burnout among frontline child protection workers in British Columbia. Attachment theory was used as a guiding framework to understand how emotional safety and consistency in supervision might act as protective factors. The study used a mixed-methods approach. Survey data were collected from 84 participants, followed by six qualitative interviews with frontline workers and team leaders. Burnout was measured using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), and supervisory relationship quality was assessed using the Short Supervisory Relationship Questionnaire (S-SRQ). Quantitative findings showed that supportive supervision was associated with lower emotional exhaustion. Supervisors who were emotionally available, consistent, and reflective were linked to reduced burnout. However, perceived workload had a stronger association with emotional exhaustion than supervisory support, and supervision was not significantly related to other burnout dimensions such as depersonalization or personal accomplishment. Interview findings reinforced the importance of emotionally safe supervisory relationships but also highlighted that even strong supervision could not fully mitigate broader organizational pressures. This study had several limitations, including reliance on self-report tools, the inability to establish causation, and potential self-selection bias among participants. The S-SRQ was developed in a different context, which may affect how well it captured supervisory dynamics within MCFD. The MBI has been critiqued for its limited ability to capture a consistent definition of burnout and for overlooking structural factors. Findings from this study suggest that reducing burnout requires a dual approach. Strengthening supervision is important, but it must be supported by manageable workloads, adequate staffing, and space for supervisors to engage meaningfully with their teams. Future efforts should focus on improving both relational supports and structural conditions to promote worker well-being. In conclusion, attachment-informed supervision played a protective role against emotional exhaustion, but it was not a standalone solution. Addressing both relational and systemic factors is essential to support a resilient and sustainable child protection workforce.