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Burnout as a Predictor of Psychological Alienation Components among Students of Basic Education in Kuwait

Article Number: e2026053  |  Available Online: April 2026  |  DOI: 10.22521/edupij.2026.22.53

Shaimaa Naief Eid Alsuhail Almutairi , Rana Suhaim Aldabous , Aisha Dehan Alazemi

Abstract

Background/purpose. The present study aimed to investigate the correlation between burnout and psychological alienation among Students of the College of Basic Education in Kuwait, identify whether there are statistically significant differences in burnout levels and its dimensions between students with high and low levels of psychological alienation, and examine the extent to which burnout can predict psychological alienation among university students.

Materials/methods. The study adopted a descriptive correlational design and was conducted on a sample of 320 male and female students from various university faculties. Two standardized instruments were used: the Burnout Scale and the Psychological Alienation Scale.

Results. The findings revealed high levels of burnout symptoms among the participants, particularly in the dimensions of emotional exhaustion and reduced personal accomplishment. Moreover, statistically significant positive correlations were found between burnout and the dimensions of psychological alienation, including meaninglessness, isolation, and powerlessness.

Conclusion. The results also indicated that burnout significantly predicts psychological alienation. Based on these findings, the study recommended implementing psychological support programs and stress management interventions within universities to alleviate the effects of burnout and reduce levels of alienation among students.

Keywords: Burnout, Psychological Alienation, University Students, Emotional Exhaustion, Meaninglessness, Kuwait

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