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Physical, psychological and occupational consequences of job burnout: A systematic review of prospective studies

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  • Denise Albieri Jodas Salvagioni
  • Francine Nesello Melanda
  • Arthur Eumann Mesas
  • Alberto Durán González
  • Flávia Lopes Gabani
  • Selma Maffei de Andrade

Abstract

Burnout is a syndrome that results from chronic stress at work, with several consequences to workers’ well-being and health. This systematic review aimed to summarize the evidence of the physical, psychological and occupational consequences of job burnout in prospective studies. The PubMed, Science Direct, PsycInfo, SciELO, LILACS and Web of Science databases were searched without language or date restrictions. The Transparent Reporting of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed. Prospective studies that analyzed burnout as the exposure condition were included. Among the 993 articles initially identified, 61 fulfilled the inclusion criteria, and 36 were analyzed because they met three criteria that must be followed in prospective studies. Burnout was a significant predictor of the following physical consequences: hypercholesterolemia, type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, hospitalization due to cardiovascular disorder, musculoskeletal pain, changes in pain experiences, prolonged fatigue, headaches, gastrointestinal issues, respiratory problems, severe injuries and mortality below the age of 45 years. The psychological effects were insomnia, depressive symptoms, use of psychotropic and antidepressant medications, hospitalization for mental disorders and psychological ill-health symptoms. Job dissatisfaction, absenteeism, new disability pension, job demands, job resources and presenteeism were identified as professional outcomes. Conflicting findings were observed. In conclusion, several prospective and high-quality studies showed physical, psychological and occupational consequences of job burnout. The individual and social impacts of burnout highlight the need for preventive interventions and early identification of this health condition in the work environment.

Suggested Citation

  • Denise Albieri Jodas Salvagioni & Francine Nesello Melanda & Arthur Eumann Mesas & Alberto Durán González & Flávia Lopes Gabani & Selma Maffei de Andrade, 2017. "Physical, psychological and occupational consequences of job burnout: A systematic review of prospective studies," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 12(10), pages 1-29, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0185781
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0185781
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Lizano, Erica L. & Mor Barak, Michalle, 2015. "Job burnout and affective wellbeing: A longitudinal study of burnout and job satisfaction among public child welfare workers," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 55(C), pages 18-28.
    2. Kotaro Shoji & Magdalena Lesnierowska & Ewelina Smoktunowicz & Judith Bock & Aleksandra Luszczynska & Charles C Benight & Roman Cieslak, 2015. "What Comes First, Job Burnout or Secondary Traumatic Stress? Findings from Two Longitudinal Studies from the U.S. and Poland," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 10(8), pages 1-15, August.
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