Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Practice Examination

What is the first stage of burnout in the workplace?

1. Depersonalization

2. Emotional exhaustion

3. Reduced personal accomplishment

4. Stress overload

The correct answer is: Emotional exhaustion

Emotional exhaustion is recognized as the first stage of burnout in the workplace. This stage is characterized by feelings of being drained and depleted, which can stem from continuous work pressure, lack of support, or an overwhelming workload. Employees experiencing emotional exhaustion may feel fatigued, overwhelmed, and unable to meet the demands of their job, leading to a sense of helplessness. When emotional exhaustion occurs, it serves as a precursor to the subsequent stages of burnout, such as depersonalization and reduced personal accomplishment. While stress overload can contribute to the development of emotional exhaustion, it is the direct emotional response that signifies the beginning of burnout, as it profoundly affects an individual’s mood and motivation. Recognizing emotional exhaustion as the initial stage is crucial for developing effective interventions and support structures before burnout progresses to more severe manifestations.