Approche clinique et psychopathologique du burn out : discussion à partir de la psychodynamique du travail

Abstract

AimThis article aims to discuss the semiological and etiological aspects of burnout from the analysis of the psychological processes involved in the encounter with work, in particular, care work. MethodThe discussion highlights the central place of the subjective relationship to work in the genesis of disorders designated as burnout. In particular, the concepts of recognition, hyperactivity, and sublimation are discussed. ResultsThe analyses highlight the role of the psychological motivations of subjects’ engagement in work, both from an individual and also a collective point of view, and their relationship with the risk of psychopathological decompensation. DiscussionThe discussion suggests that the hyperactive subjective relationship to work might be an important intermediate link in the etiology of situations relating to burnout. Practical implications of listening to patients’ discourse about work in clinical settings are also considered. ConclusionThe elucidation of the psychopathological issues linked to burnout is based on an etiological approach that is able to take into account the nature of the suffering and the psychic processes involved in the work situation.