Understanding Burnout in University Students With Physical Impairments: The Protective Roles of Social Support and Self- Concept

Abstract Background University students with physical impairments often face burnout in mainstream settings due to stigma, social barriers, and inadequate support. While social anxiety may heighten risk, self-concept and social support could protect, either directly or as a moderator. This study aimed to test these predictors of psychological burnout and social support’s moderating role. Methods This cross-sectional study surveyed 71 students with physical impairments (34 males, 37 females; mean age 26.25 years, SD = 4.95) from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, using convenience and snowball sampling. Burnout was assessed via Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey (α = .73); social anxiety via Social Anxiety-Acceptance and Action Questionnaire (α = .74); self-concept via Personal Self-Concept Questionnaire (α = .81); and social support via Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (α = .76). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics (mean and SD) with the aid of SPSS Version 26. Hayes’ PROCESS Macro examined direct predictions and moderation (Model 1), controlling for gender and age. Results Social anxiety did not predict burnout (B = 0.06, p=.587). Self-concept (B=-0.59, p