The second stage consists of immediate, short-term emotional tension, fatigue, and exhaustion. Some jobs are more prone to burnout than others. When performance expectations and roles are unclear, the risk of burnout increases. High case loads are another contributing factor, as are lack of autonomy, inadequate feedback, monotony, lack of participation in decision-making, and lack of responsibility. Poor opportunity to use skills and poor physical work conditions have also been found to be related to burnout.
Organizational factors contribute as well.
These include bureaucratic organizations and emotionally demanding relationships with clients. It may be that social support from the partner alleviates stress. Several personality traits have been associated with decreased worker resiliency. However, self-improvement alone is not enough. It is necessary to focus on the workplace as well as the individual.