Title: The science of stress and success: a bibliometric journey through burnout and performance studies

Authors: Y. Suryanarayana Murthy; Sairoop Allena; A. Narasimha Rao

Addresses: Department of Commerce and Management Studies, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, India ' Department of Management Studies, Gayatri Vidya Parishad College for Degree and PG Courses, Rushi Konda, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India ' Department of Commerce and Management Studies, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, India

Abstract: This paper provides a bibliometric review of burnout and employee performance research, analysing 616 Scopus papers from 2004 to 2025 using Biblioshiny and VOSviewer. It identifies temporal trends, influential authors, journals, institutions, and collaboration patterns. Findings show a surge in publications post-COVID-19, highlighting stress, emotional exhaustion, work-life balance, and well-being. Key constructs include the JD-R model, with emerging topics like digital stress, resilience, hybrid work, and ESG practices. The study shifts from individual psychological views to multidimensional strategic issues involving organisational behaviour, sustainability, and digital design. The USA leads, but Denmark, Italy, and India are rising. Theoretical implications integrate technology and sustainability into burnout frameworks; practical ones recommend flexible work, digital wellness, and ESG-aligned practices. Limitations include database scope and citation biases; future research should use multi-database, mixed methods, and cross-cultural designs. This paper guides future theory and practice in modern business.

Keywords: burnout; employee performance; work-life balance; emotional exhaustion; employee well-being; digital stress; hybrid work; resilience; ESG practices; bibliometric analysis.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBBM.2026.155069

International Journal of Bibliometrics in Business and Management, 2026 Vol.5 No.1, pp.1 - 33

Received: 17 Aug 2025
Accepted: 09 Dec 2025
Published online: 25 Jul 2026 *

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