In the context of workplace stress, what is the most likely psychological outcome when an individual experiences too much conflict in the workplace?

• A. Heightened sense of control and autonomy
• B. Improved cognitive performance and creativity
• C. Increased job satisfaction and engagement
• D. Burnout, characterized by emotional exhaustion and reduced motivation

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of workplace stress and conflict, which refers to the psychological strain experienced when an individual faces excessive disagreements or tension at work.
2. Step 2: Recognize that excessive conflict typically leads to negative psychological outcomes rather than positive ones like increased control, creativity, or job satisfaction.
3. Step 3: Identify 'burnout' as a key psychological outcome of prolonged workplace stress and conflict. Burnout is characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment.
4. Step 4: Connect the symptoms of burnout—such as emotional exhaustion and reduced motivation—to the experience of too much conflict, explaining why these symptoms arise as coping mechanisms fail.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the most likely psychological outcome of excessive workplace conflict is burnout, rather than heightened control, improved performance, or increased job satisfaction.