On the Temporal Nature of Parental Burnout: Development of an Experience Sampling Methodology (ESM) Tool to Assess Parental Burnout and Its Related Ever-Changing Family Context

Abstract

Parental burnout is a growing subject of research, but thus far this research has not examined whether the features of parental burnout fluctuate over time. Moreover, parenting and parental burnout are inextricable from their family context. Therefore, a critical next step involves examining how parental burnout features interact with the ever-changing family environment. To do so, we developed an 11-item experience sampling methodology (ESM) tool to measure self-reported parental burnout features (specifically emotional exhaustion, emotional distance, and feeling fed up), as well as partner relationship, children’s behavior, behavior toward children, social support, and perceived resources. To ensure items were clearly phrased and covered the entirety of their construct via statements applicable to most parents daily, we sought feedback from parents (from the general population) and parental burnout experts. We also conducted two preliminary rounds of ESM data collection, one over a one-week period (n = 5) and a second over a two-week period (n = 9). Participating parents found the ESM survey easy to answer and not burdensome. Their results indicated sufficient within-person variability for all ESM items, supporting that these three parental burnout features fluctuate over time. We collected the ESM data using formr, an open-source platform, and we provide open access to all materials (including a formr template, allowing free use of the assessment tool) and data: https://osf.io/s2yv5/. Finally, we discuss how assessing parental burnout over time can help usher parental burnout research and treatment forward.