Relationships between meaning and purpose in life, life satisfaction, and occupational burnout among forensic specialists and autopsy technicians, and the impact of autopsy practice

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the relationships among meaning and purpose in life, life satisfaction, and occupational burnout among forensic medicine specialists and autopsy technicians. Additionally, the impact of individual and professional variables, including autopsy frequency, on these psychosocial outcomes was investigated. The sample consisted of 298 participants, comprising forensic specialists and autopsy technicians. Data were collected using standardized instruments: the Meaning and Purpose in Life Scale (MPLS), the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, reliability testing, correlation and regression analyses, as well as t-tests and ANOVA. The results indicated that MPLS and SWLS had moderate reliability, while the MBI showed moderate internal consistency. A strong positive correlation was observed between meaning in life and life satisfaction. Conversely, both were significantly negatively correlated with burnout. Regression analyses revealed that higher MPLS and SWLS scores significantly predicted lower levels of burnout. Moreover, significant differences in MPLS, SWLS, and MBI scores were found based on education level, income, institution, professional role, years of experience, and autopsy workload. The findings suggest that meaning and purpose in life, along with life satisfaction, serve as protective factors against occupational burnout in forensic medicine professionals. High autopsy workload and recent involvement in autopsy procedures were associated with reduced psychological well-being. These results underscore the importance of institutional strategies to support the mental health and long-term sustainability of this vital workforce.