The Burnout Syndrome. Overview and Development of the Concept

Abstract

The concept of Burnout has for some time become a permanent element of common vocabulary that means psychical exhaustion. Both the source of this expression, its interpretation and effects of the syndrome are constantly being discovered and described anew. Ch. Maslach’s best known conception of “burnout” compared with the results of other studies determines the direction of their scientific development today. By systematizing definitions, factors, and models of this state we discover that its practical consequences may even be measured. Therefore by way of respective strategies and techniques to prevent or treat negative effects of this phenomenon.