Why some workers are more prone to burnout

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Meeting three basic psychological needs in the workplace can help improve employee motivation, performance, and well-being, according to a review of 1,192 studies spanning 35 years. The review concluded that workers tend to thrive when their needs for autonomy, competence, and social connection are met, regardless of job type, age, or career stage. Researchers noted that workers are generally more motivated when trusted to make decisions in their roles, rather than being constantly supervised or controlled. Beyond autonomy, workers also require competence—the opportunity to develop skills, receive useful feedback, and feel capable of tackling challenges at work. According to the researchers, motivation declines more easily when work feels confusing, overly burdensome, or offers no opportunity for growth. These findings are considered increasingly relevant amid the rise of remote and hybrid working systems, which offer flexibility but can reduce social interaction among colleagues. The researchers also found that the quality of motivation is more influential than its magnitude. Workers driven by enjoyment and a sense of meaning in their work demonstrated better well-being and performance than those working primarily due to pressure, guilt, rewards, or fear. The researchers further assessed that technological developments, including artificial intelligence (AI), should be directed to support workers’ psychological needs, rather than diminishing their sense of control, opportunities for growth, or social relationships in the workplace. Based on the review’s findings, the researchers suggest that workers build new skills, strengthen relationships with colleagues, link their work to personal values, and engage more actively in discussions about working methods so that their psychological needs can be met.