Which of the following is NOT a stage of burnout?

The choice indicating "Isolation" as not a stage of burnout reflects an understanding of the commonly recognized phases that individuals progress through when experiencing burnout. Burnout typically starts with enthusiasm, where individuals may be highly motivated and engaged in their work. This enthusiasm can gradually transition into disillusionment, characterized by feelings of frustration and disappointment as idealism fades and the realities of work set in. This may lead to complacency, where one becomes indifferent to their job responsibilities, often working with minimal motivation or passion.

While isolation can sometimes occur as a consequence of burnout—where individuals withdraw from others due to stress and fatigue—it is not referred to as a formal stage in the typical progression of burnout. The stages are generally focused on the emotional and psychological changes experienced in the workplace, rather than the social aspects of burnout, such as isolation. Understanding these stages helps in recognizing burnout early and allows for interventions to be made before reaching more severe states of disengagement.