Burnout among high school students: A literature review

Burnout among adults in professional situations is well-known and widely described (Maslach, Schaufeli & Leiter 2001). According to Schauffeli et al. (2002) burnout syndrome is also found among university students. More recently, burnout has also been identified in high school student populations. The aim of this study is to explore current research concerning school-related burnout among high school students. Sixteen studies concerning school-related burnout and academic stress among high school students were reviewed. The review of these publications has highlighted a number of risk factors and mental health consequences concerning burnout in an adolescent population. Gaps regarding research in this field have also emerged, in particular the need for screening scales and repercussions on mental health. Implications for future studies include developing prevention with attention to feelings of self-efficacy and solution-oriented coping.