PERSONALITY WORK

Over the past 15 years, there has been an explosion of research and inquiry into the burnout phenomenon. The study of burnout has moved from a hot topic to a serious issue which affects millions of workers (Farber, 1983). “Burned out professionals are more frequently absent or late for work than their non-burned out colleagues; they become noticeably less idealistic and more rigid; their performance at work deteriorates markedly, and they may fantasize or actually plan on leaving the profession ” (Farber, 1983, p. 3)” Studies of burnout have provided baseline data that bring the burnout phenomenon into focus. Research has shown that burnout-prone individuals are not lazy or underachievers but are in fact characterized as overachievers, dynamic, charismatic, empathetic, dedicated, idealistic and people oriented (Freudenberger & Richelson, 1980). Burnout has been most prevalent among workers in the helping professions. Studies have shown that these individuals suffer from high stress level