An Analysis of Key Factors and Demographic Variables of Occupational Stress Influencing Higher Secondary Educators in Kerala

Abstract

Abstract: Teachers in the process of shaping students’ future with necessary moral values and knowledge, play a crucial role in the society. Higher secondary schools’ performance and teachers' well-being has a consequential challenge due to Occupational stress in most of the cities. This study aims to bring out the determinants of occupational stress factors among higher secondary teachers in Kerala. Using Principal component axis with varimax five components emerged as significant factors such as Student Behavioural and Parental Expectation Issues, Academic and Administrative Pressure, Work life Stressors and Professional Support, Inadequate Infrastructure and Resources and Time and Appreciation Crunch which together contributed for 69% of the occupational stress. The study emphasised student behaviour, additional administrative responsibilities, excessive work, tight schedules and students disrespectful attitude caused major effect on occupational stress levels among educators. Further, the study also visibly reveals that females and married persons experience noticeably greater stress levels compared to unmarried and male teachers.