The 4 Types of Burnout
Burnout, an occupational health concern, is described as exhaustion related mostly to work, although it applies to other domains too. Burnout carries emotional exhaustion (e.g., emotional drain/depletion), physical exhaustion (e.g., taking more time in the morning to get ready for work), and cognitive exhaustion (e.g., inability to concentrate on tasks that were previously easy to complete) [1].
The symptoms vary among individuals, but a clear indicator of burnout is a progressive distance or mental detachment from work responsibilities. Although burnout is not recognized as a formal medical condition, it is a concern that can affect all areas of life and have a substantial impact on the psycho-social functioning of the individual.
There is emerging evidence regarding the subtypes of burnout, such as the frenetic, under-challenged, and worn-out subtypes [2], and more recently the misalignment subtype. Considering the level of work dedication, one may experience a transition from one form of burnout to another.
Common sub-types of burnout
Frenetic sub-type:
Characterized by work overload, and usually a high level of dedication
It is commonly attached to the “law of compensation” in psychology, meaning an overachievement at work and underachievement in other areas of life (e.g., personal life)
Under-challenged sub-type:
Characterized by an under-stimulating environment where work tasks are mostly repetitive
Over time, work becomes uninteresting and monotonous
There are no clear avenues for professional growth
Worn-out sub-type:
Also known as the neglect burnout
Characterized by learned helplessness and hopelessness
Typically related to unstructured or unclear tasks, the individual adopts a progressive neglectful approach in the face of potentially demanding and stressful work
Misalignment sub-type:
Characterized by a discrepancy between the company’s values and the personal values and life principles of the individual
Such burnout is often present in jobs that are considered uninspiring for some people
Professional and personal fulfillment are considered conflicting (misaligned)