WHY NOT/HOW NOT: MY ARGUMENT FOR NOT APPLYING GAME THEORY TO ASSESS AND TREAT BURNOUT

There are some valid reasons to consider ending this exploration now. Here are some:

Oversimplification & Limited Generalizability

  1. One argument against the application of game theory is that it’s manichean nature may oversimplify complex human behaviours and thus it may fail to capture subjective lived experience contained in the stuff of emotions and values (as well as consideration of contextual factors like power dynamics and social inequalities). Oversimplification can lead to ineffective interventions that do not adequately address the multifaceted nature of burnout.

  2. Game theory models may have limited generalizability to counseling settings, because they cannot fully capture the complexity of human interactions and decision-making processes.

Why/How: My Argument for Applying Game Theory to Assess and Treat Burnout

Insight & Predictive Power

  1. Game theory in general provides frameworks that may be applied to (a) analyzing workplace dynamics and (2) specific models, like Prisoner's Dilemma and Nash Equilibrium, offer predictive power.

  2. Analyzing workplace dynamics may provide insight into motivations and decision-making processes of individuals and thus identify specific underlying causes of burnout. This analysis may render helpful information for designing effective interventions.

  3. The predictive power of certain models may support anticipating behavior and identifying sources of conflict and stress in workplace environments. This predictive capability may be helpful in mitigating burnout risk.

Holistic Assessment & Tailored Interventions

  1. Game theory we may be useful for understanding systemic factors contributing to burnout (ie workplace interactions). Adopting a holistic approach may be helpful to develop strategies tailored to specific workplace dynamics.

  2. Game theory insights my inform targeted intervention strategies (ie leveraging cooperation, fairness, and negotiation) to mitigate burnout risk. Understanding the underlying game structures may support interventions that address root causes of burnout.

Musing Aloud

Musing Aloud

Musing Aloud is the official blog for Michael Dayan PhD, RCC, CCC. It is a space where some of my half-baked ideas will be explored and, who knows, further cooking may result. With this blog I take permission to explore and share unrefined ideas and to welcome constructive feedback.

Note of Gratitude

My inaugural set of musings is dedicated to my dear friend Adam Minsky, who taught me so many basic things. You are CEO to hundreds of thousands, but you will always be my senior adviser. Adam, when we were in our early 20’s you introduced me to the work of professor Janice Gross Stein and you encouraged me to study with her. This set me on a life-long fascination with game theory. I dedicate this set of musings to you (of course, I’m also grateful to Janice and to the scholars I continued my studies with at Columbia University).