Question

Which of the following is not a dimension of job burnout? a. depersonalization b. hostility c. exhaustion d. diminished personal accomplishment

Short answer

The dimension not associated with job burnout is 'b. hostility'.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Dimensions of Job Burnout

The first thing is to know the three principal dimensions of job burnout. According to the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), one of the most commonly used tools to measure job burnout, these dimensions are emotional exhaustion, depersonalization (or cynicism), and reduced personal accomplishment.

Compare the Options with the Known Dimensions

With the identified dimensions of job burnout, the second step is to compare these with the provided options. As explained before, exhaustion, depersonalization, and diminished personal accomplishment are recognized dimensions - leaving out hostility.

Identify the Non-Dimension

From the comparison, it is clear that hostility is not a recognized dimension of job burnout. Thus, option 'b' is the correct answer.

Key concepts

Maslach Burnout Inventory

The Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) is a widely recognized tool designed to help identify and measure the levels of burnout experienced by individuals in their jobs. Created by Christina Maslach and her collaborators, the MBI is used extensively in research and practical settings to quantify the three essential dimensions of burnout.
This tool is essential for understanding how different aspects of burnout manifest in various professional environments.

• The MBI uses a scoring system that assesses the frequency and intensity of feelings associated with burnout.
• It can be applied across diverse occupations, making it versatile in addressing issues related to stress and workload.

By understanding the scores from the Maslach Burnout Inventory, individuals and organizations can take actionable steps to prevent or reduce burnout, fostering a healthier and more productive work environment.

Emotional Exhaustion

Emotional exhaustion is one of the primary dimensions measured by the Maslach Burnout Inventory. It refers to the feeling of being emotionally drained and depleted of emotional resources. This condition often arises when an individual is overwhelmed by work demands or personal responsibilities.
Signs of emotional exhaustion include chronic fatigue, irritability, and a sense of dread about work.

• Consistent lack of motivation and energy to perform job-related tasks.
• Feeling mentally "checked out" or detached from one's work role.

Managing emotional exhaustion involves adopting self-care practices, setting boundaries, and utilizing stress-reduction techniques to regain a sense of well-being and avoid further burnout progression.

Depersonalization

Depersonalization, or sometimes referred to as cynicism, is another key dimension of burnout. It involves developing a negative and detached attitude towards one’s work or the people involved in it, often as a defense mechanism against stress.
It typically results in a decrease in engagement and enthusiasm for work, and it may translate into a lack of empathy or impersonal interactions.

• Feeling disconnected or alienated from one's work environment.
• Changes in attitude, such as becoming cynical or indifferent.

Addressing depersonalization requires working on improving interpersonal relations and finding ways to reconnect with colleagues and the purpose of the work itself.

Personal Accomplishment

The dimension of reduced personal accomplishment relates to the tendency of individuals experiencing burnout to evaluate themselves negatively regarding their work performance. This often leads to feelings of incompetence and lack of achievement.
People may feel that they are no longer effective in their job, which can further intensify burnout.

• Low satisfaction with one's achievements and contributions at work.
• Constant self-doubt and poor self-evaluation.

Cultivating a sense of personal accomplishment involves setting realistic goals, acknowledging achievements, and receiving constructive feedback to boost confidence and combat burnout.