The relationship between teacher demographic factors, wellness, and burnout
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Authors
Kuslis, Mykal
Issue Date
2022-06-15
Item Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keyword
Alternative Title
Abstract
Wellness is important in the discussion of successful teachers and the longevity of their careers. This mixed methods research study included teachers from the four regions of the United States. Three instruments were administered to explore the connections between demographic factors, personal wellness, and indicators of teacher burnout. Regression analyses included predictor variables of: teachers’ years of education experience, school socio-economic status (SES; Title 1 or non-Title 1), school setting (urban, suburban/rural), number of school activities outside of the primary teaching role, self-reported ability to manage stress, and six wellness factors to predict three subscales of burnout. Qualitative data from four open-ended items addressed teachers’ perceptions of wellness, stress, and burnout. A stepwise multiple linear regression indicated that psychological health and self-reported ability to manage stress predicted the mean score of emotional exhaustion, explaining 20% of the variance. Spiritual health and the number of schoolrelated activities outside of the primary teaching role predicted the mean score of depersonalization, with 27% of the variance explained. Intellectual and spiritual health predicted the mean score of personal accomplishment, explaining 42% of the variance. Individuals reported a variety of health enhancing behaviors in which they participated regularly, primarily related to physical health (i.e., diet and exercise). Teachers reported many stressors such as addressing the needs of students and parents. Reasons for leaving the profession prior to retirement included burnout, dealing with student and parent concerns, and resource-related issues. Some educators reported receiving no support from districts, others reported benefits from resource availability and positive administrators.
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Citation
Publisher
Western CT State University