BURNOUT SYNDROME IN HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS: THE ROLE OF WORKPLACE HARASSMENT, TOXIC LEADERSHIP, AND HOSTILE ENVIRONMENTS

Abstract

Burnout Syndrome represents a significant occupational health issue among healthcare professionals and is strongly influenced by psychosocial factors within the workplace. This chapter aims to analyze the role of workplace bullying, toxic leadership, and hostile organizational environments in the development and exacerbation of Burnout among healthcare workers. The methodology consists of a narrative review of the international literature, based on studies published in recognized scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, prioritizing empirical research and systematic reviews. The results demonstrate that recurrent workplace bullying, authoritarian or negligent leadership styles, and organizational climates characterized by conflict, excessive workload, and lack of institutional support are directly associated with increased emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced professional accomplishment. Additionally, negative impacts were identified on the quality of healthcare delivery, psychological well-being, and staff retention. It is concluded that addressing Burnout requires comprehensive organizational interventions, including institutional policies to prevent workplace bullying, the promotion of ethical leadership, and the development of healthy work environments, aiming to protect healthcare professionals’ mental health and ensure the sustainability of healthcare systems.