Degree Name

EdD (Doctor of Education)

Program

Educational Leadership

Date of Award

12-2004

Committee Chair or Co-Chairs

Nancy Dishner

Committee Members

Russell F. West, Louise L. MacKay, Cecil N. Blankenship

Abstract

The goal of this study was to identify some of the key stressors novice and veteran teachers face and to determine if there are any particular steps that administrators of the school systems can take to ensure the success of all teachers. The qualitative research method was used in this study. An interview guide was developed and used during the interview process. Eighteen teachers, nine new teachers and nine veteran teachers all with general education classroom experience participated in the research. The interviews were taped and transcribed verbatim, and then analyzed to develop themes.

Themes emerged regarding issues that teachers felt were the biggest stress factors that they face. They were also found in relation to the traits that participants felt to be crucial to the success of new teachers including the teacher preparation program, and types of mentoring and induction programs in place, as well as the leadership style of the principal and professional development opportunities that were offered, and their impact on stress.

Themes from the study show that teaching is a very stressful occupation, and that all teachers, regardless of the number of years they have been teaching, face similar stress factors. However, steps can be taken to help relieve stress that both new and veteran teachers are facing. Some changes may need to be made in teacher preparation programs, as well as the implementation of formal mentoring and induction programs. Principals and Supervisors can also play an important role in the stress levels that teachers face through their leadership style and professional development plans.

Document Type

Dissertation - unrestricted

Copyright

Copyright by the authors.

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