A review of the relevant literature found that the police profession is among the most stressful occupations and burnout results from frequent, extensive stress. The literature also indicates that burnout is reversible and can be managed and prevented. The empirical study of stress and burnout focused on 143 troopers and special agents in Division VII of the Virginia State Police. Questionnaires and demographic data sheets were distributed to each of the subjects to obtain data on officer characteristics and experience of stress. Of the data sheets returned, over half indicated moderate to high stress/burnout levels. The most prevalent stressors were an officers' personal safety in a high-volume traffic area, the high cost of living in that area, and the constant receipt of citizen complaints. The data showed no correlation between high stress/burnout levels and low productivity nor any correlation between high career progression scores and low stress/burnout levels. 39 notes, 26 tables, 18-item bibliography, 24 references, and study instruments