In the care, prevention, and treatment, of burnout, the reoccurring theme is "control and balance" between expectation and performance. Burnout is treatable and preventable, but changes and interventions must occur on all levels, (individual, organizational, and societal). Recent research, which has expanded the already complex definition of burnout, indicates that the problem of burnout is more widespread than originally thought. Successful management of stress and burnout is seen to be a key element in continuing the survival of the human race. This review of studies traces the history of stress and burnout, their sources, symptoms, treatment, and prevention. The studies cover several different working environments, including: (1) education; (2) medicine; (3) dentistry; (4) social services; (5) law; (6) law enforcement; (7) ministry; (8) accounting; and (9) business. Each study was conducted by different authors. A review of the research indicates a need to explore burnout in more work settings, a need for research about the relationships of stressors and burnout, and the costs that relate to each. It is hoped that within the next decade burnout will be recognized and defined universally, and that research will have provided society with cost-effective intervention programs that focus on the identification and prevention of burnout, and human resource management. (301 references) (LAP)