This synopsis examines previous research related to seismic energy-dissipating structural systems for buildings. These systems are grouped into self-centering systems, systems exhibiting rocking behavior and systems with energy-dissipating fuse elements. Bracing systems, precast buildings, steel frames with post-tensioning strands, rocking shear walls and some similar structural systems are investigated for self- centering behavior. Rocking motion reduces seismic loading and ductility demands by generally forcing structural behavior to remain in the elastic range. Energy-dissipating fuses are structural elements that protect the surrounding structure by absorbing energy from an earthquake that would otherwise be absorbed by the primary girders, columns, and braces of the structure, as well as nonstructural elements.