Research Reveals What Industrial Psychology and HR Professionals Need to Flourish
On 22 May 2026, Dr Sibusiso Mnxuma proudly received his PhD in Industrial Psychology — a well-deserved recognition of his commitment to understanding and improving people's lives at work. Driven by a genuine concern for people at work, his study — supervised by Prof. Ian Rothmann, Prof. Marius Stander and Dr Thapelo Chaacha — shines a spotlight on the working lives of industrial psychology and human resource (IPHRM) practitioners — the very people responsible for others' well-being in organisations.
The research, spanning three connected studies, found that IPHRM professionals cannot effectively support employees when their own work environments are unstable, unsupportive, or unfair. Central to the findings is the concept of work capabilities — the real freedoms and practical opportunities people need to do meaningful, valued work. Think of work capabilities as the difference between simply having a job and genuinely being able to perform it well, grow professionally, and contribute meaningfully. When these capabilities are constrained by heavy workloads, scarce resources, or insecure employment conditions, practitioners experienced higher burnout, disengagement, and intentions to resign.
Conversely, when IPHRM professionals worked in environments with inclusive leadership, fair conditions, and meaningful development opportunities, their capabilities expanded — and they flourished emotionally, psychologically, and socially.
For individuals, the findings validate that burnout is not a personal weakness but a systemic issue shaped by workplace conditions.
For the profession, the study calls for treating IPHRM practitioners as skilled professionals deserving of the same care they extend to others.
For organisations, the message is clear: investing in stable employment, fair workloads, inclusive leadership, and professional growth protects both people and performance.
When IPHRM professionals flourish, organisations and the people within them flourish too.
