Discrepancies in executive functioning assessment in burnout: A comparative analysis of performance-based and self-reported measures

Previous research has shown a link between burnout and executive functioning, but findings remain inconsistent and vary depending on the assessment method. In particular, no correlation is generally observed between performance-based and rating measures of executive functions. This study aimed to examine the relationship between burnout and executive functions, comparing performance-based and self-reported measures, while also investigating the influence of conative variables. Fifty-six adults participated, including 29 with clinical burnout and 27 healthy controls. They completed neuropsychological tests assessing inhibition, working memory, and cognitive flexibility, as well as questionnaires on daily executive difficulties and traits such as emotion regulation, perfectionism, anxiety, and neuroticism. Few impairments emerged on objective tests; inhibition was reduced but may reflect general cognitive slowing. However, participants with burnout reported marked executive difficulties on questionnaires, which appeared partly influenced by neuroticism and perfectionist traits. These findings suggest an association between burnout and executive function difficulties, particularly in self-perception. They also underline the role of conative variables in shaping these perceptions. For accurate assessment, burnout should be evaluated using specific diagnostic criteria and taking individual characteristics into account. The results have clinical implications for understanding and addressing burnout-related cognitive complaints.