Burn-out as a crisis in self-efficacy: Conceptual and practical implications

This paper reviews the central role of self-efficacy expectations in a variety of approaches to organizational performance and management. It also explores the implications of self-efficacy for the study of psychological burn-out. It is proposed that conceptualizing burn-out as a crisis in self-efficacy would allow a more reasonable understanding of moderate instances of the syndrome, and would differentiate the concept of burn-out distinctly from the related field of occupational stress. The paper proposes the utility of a more specific construct of professional efficacy in light of the essential achievement experiences which occur in the workplace. It is proposed that a clearer delineation of the role of professional efficacy throughout these research approaches would enhance the coherence of the field. In conclusion the paper discusses implications for research and practice. © 1992 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.