Emotions of Teacher Stress

"Eggshell days" is how one teacher in this study describes the experience of stress. Stressed teachers here relate their experiences, perceptions and feelings as they hit rock-bottom. They describe the help and the strategies that enable them to recover and the ways they renegotiate their lives to move forward. Their stories throw light on what has become a crucial -- and increasing -- personal, family and societal issue that is increasingly prevalent among educators and other public service providers. They also offer hope to others in a similar plight. The book examines the individual psychologies of this group of stressed teachers, their work patterns, roles and relationships -- and their steps towards recovery. It also highlights the ways the current education system contributes to teacher stress and indicates how dysfunctional school support systems can be changed so that teachers work in a collegiate and supportive environment. The authors' findings will help to alleviate and even prevent occupational stress among teachers and others in the caring professions.

Peter Woods is Professor of Education at the Open University and Research Professor at the University of Plymouth.