What does the MBI measure? Three dimensions of burnout at work
The MBI measures burnout as three dimensions. In the general survey they are exhaustion, cynicism, and professional efficacy. In the human services and educator versions they are emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, and personal accomplishment. [1][2] Each is scored separately. It does not measure the causes of burnout.
What does each dimension cover?
Mind Garden describes exhaustion as feeling worn out, depleted, or lacking energy. Cynicism is detachment from the job, including negative or inappropriate attitudes and withdrawal. Professional efficacy is your own evaluation of your competence and the value of your contribution. [2]
| General survey (MBI-GS) | Human services and educators (MBI-HSS, MBI-ES) |
|---|---|
| Exhaustion | Emotional exhaustion |
| Cynicism | Depersonalisation |
| Professional efficacy | Personal accomplishment |
How do the three dimensions relate to the WHO description?
The WHO describes burn-out as three parts: feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion, increased mental distance from the job or negative or cynical feelings about it, and reduced professional efficacy. [3] The names are close to the MBI-GS dimensions. That is our observation, not something either source says, so do not read an MBI score as a WHO-defined condition.
Why does it matter for work stress?
Burnout is more than being tired. The MBI separates tiredness from detachment and from doubt about your own effectiveness, which can help you see what the experience feels like. Someone who is exhausted but still engaged is in a different position from someone who is exhausted and has pulled away. Mind Garden also describes five burnout profiles, called engaged, ineffective, overextended, disengaged, and burnout, which are derived from the levels of the dimensions. [1]
How is it different from other burnout questionnaires?
The OLBI has two dimensions, exhaustion and disengagement. The CBI measures exhaustion at three levels. The Burnout Assessment Tool adds problems with thinking and emotions. The MBI is the one with three dimensions that include professional efficacy.
| Question you have | Page to read |
|---|---|
| How do exhaustion, cynicism, and efficacy compare? | Maslach Burnout Inventory (this page) |
| How drained or detached do I feel about my job? | Oldenburg Burnout Inventory |
| Is my exhaustion about my work, or life in general? | Copenhagen Burnout Inventory |
| How do thinking and emotional symptoms look beside exhaustion? | Burnout Assessment Tool |
| How stressful has the last month felt overall? | PSS-10 |
What does the MBI leave out?
It does not tell you what is causing the burnout, whether it is burnout or depression, or what to change at work. It does not ask about workload, control, or support. The publisher says it is not a clinical diagnostic tool. [1]
Sources and further reading
These links open external research and health-information websites.
- Mind Garden: Maslach Burnout Inventory (the publisher's MBI page)
The versions and item counts, the three dimensions, the seven-point frequency scale, the five burnout profiles, the advice against a single burnout score, and the statement that cut-offs were removed from the fourth edition. Read on 2 November 2026. - Mind Garden: MBI General Survey (MBI-GS)
The 16-item general survey, its three scales and what each describes, the occupations it is meant for, and the profile classification. Read on 2 November 2026. - WHO: Burn-out an "occupational phenomenon" (2019)
The ICD-11 definition, the three dimensions, and the statement that it is not classified as a medical condition.
This page is educational. A questionnaire score cannot establish a diagnosis or explain the cause of your symptoms. If you are struggling, speak with a doctor or mental health professional, whatever your score. Read when to get help for work stress or find a helpline in your country.