Turnover in the Social Services: Turning over to the Benefits

Turnover in the social services is generally linked conceptually and empirically to stress, burnout, and other job-related attitudes. In addition, turnover is often associated with numerous negative organizational consequences. This article illuminates the benefits of turnover for clients and workers and describes agency-adaptive responses that minimize the disruptive effects of turnover. Recommendations are offered for distinguishing functional turnover from dysfunctional turnover.