Definitions
Burnout
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       Burnout


All definitions
Burnout can be understood as "a syndrome of emotional exhaustion and cynicism that occurs frequently among individuals who do 'people-work' of some kind" (Maslach & Jackson, 1981, p. 99).

The instrument developed to measure the burnout syndrome consists of three subscales. Thus, burnout can be thought of as having three sub-facets:
  1. Emotional exhaustion. "As emotional resources are depleted, workers feel they are no longer able to give of themselves at a psychological level).
  2. Depersonalization and cynicism felt toward the "people" who are being served by the "people work." Maslach and Jackson describe this facet as "the development of negative, cynical attitudes and feelings about one's clients."
  3. Reduced personal efficacy, described by Maslach and Jackson as "the tendency to evaluate oneself negatively, particularly with regard to one's work with clients" (Maslach & Jackson, 1981, p. 15).

Related term

References
Maslach, C, Jackson, S. E. (1981). Measurement of experienced burnout. Journal of Occupational Behavior, 2, 99-113.
Read a practice exam essay in response to the question:

"Define the concept of 'emotional labour' and outline any implications for well-being."

Exam essay practice answer