Specificity of burnout syndrome inherent for professions with high stress level

Abstract

Th e causes and eff ects of professional burnout syndrome are considered. Th e symptoms of burnout is analysed. Th e organizational and personality factors reducing the psychic stability and successfulness of an individual in the professional environment are emphasized. Th e empirical results received in the course of investigation of burnout in professions with increased risk of precocious development of burnout symptoms are discussed. Th e diagnostic instrument AVEM (Arbeitsbezogenes Verhaltensund Erlebensmuster — Work-related Behavior and Experience Patterns) has been used as a method of research. Th e results obtained in the groups of managers, middle medical staff , policemen and penal institution employees are given. Th e specifi c character of professional burnout syndrome development for each group under test is shown. Th e approaches to developing burnout preventive measures for some professional groups are presented.

Keywords:

professional burnout, work involvement, the tendency to avoid and refuse professional activity, professional activity satisfaction, sense of estrangement, social support, subjective significance of activity