Living with Uncertainty in Human Rights Advocacy : A Psychoeducation Based Case Study of Activist Burnout in the Kamisan Movement

Zita Mugen E Mugen E; IGAA Noviekayati

doi:10.55927/ijsmr.v4i2.4

Authors

Zita Mugen E Mugen E Universitas 17 Agustus 1945
IGAA Noviekayati Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Surabaya

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55927/ijsmr.v4i2.4

Keywords:

Activist Burnout, the Kamisan, Psychoeducation, Human Rights Activism, Psychological Distress

Abstract

This study examines a psychoeducation based psychological intervention about activist burnout among human rights activists in Aksi Kamisan Surabaya. One group pre test and post test experimental method was employed consisting of 10 activists aged 18 - 25 years, the coordinator of Aksi Kamisan Surabaya, and community members around Taman Apasari, observed during weekly actions. Data were collected using the DASS-42, an activist burnout questionnaire, focus group discussion, semi structured interviews and field observations. Results demonstrated that activists experienced emotional exhaustion, situational anxiety, moral distress, and reduced personal accomplishment. Post interventions results showed increased reflective awareness and improved ability to identify psychological experiences as activist burnout. Levels of stress and anxiety in moderate to high levels, indicated ongoing structural and sociopolitical stressor rather than individual pathology. These results support psychoeducation as a preventive mental health strategy for activists

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