New Delhi, May 1: A unique study has revealed that workplace practices and leadership significantly affect the emotional health and job satisfaction of school teachers. This important research, conducted at the School of Business at IIT Guwahati, highlights the direct impact of school culture on teachers’ mental well-being and overall satisfaction.
The study indicates that when teachers cannot present their true selves at school, they experience stress and dissatisfaction. During the research, IIT’s Assistant Professor Dr. Abraham Cyril Isaac and researcher M.A. Jaishankar found that teachers feel comfortable interacting with students. However, they tend to suppress their true identities under institutional pressure or in the presence of senior colleagues. This imbalance leads to decreased job satisfaction and increased emotional stress.
An interesting finding from the research is that while teachers teach openly in the classroom, they feel pressured in the staff room or when facing administration. This pressure breeds stress and dissatisfaction. The study is based on the concept of “workplace authenticity,” which refers to how comfortable teachers feel in their true nature. The hierarchical structure in Indian schools clearly affects this.
The researchers interviewed 30 different teachers and conducted a deep analysis of their responses. Based on this, they developed a new model called the Teacher Workplace Authenticity Impact Model, which revealed several shortcomings, particularly in support systems. According to this model, new teachers face more pressure. Those with higher self-authenticity reported greater job satisfaction and managed criticism and work pressure more effectively. Their connection to the institution was also stronger. In contrast, a pressure-driven culture weakens them.
Dr. Isaac states that authenticity in the classroom brings teaching to life, but its absence outside the classroom puts teachers under pressure. The most significant improvements in education come not from structure but from culture. Allow teachers to be themselves, and the results will improve. The research also suggests several solutions.
According to the study, better leadership is essential. A collaborative environment must be created, work-life balance maintained, and strict policies against harassment implemented. Such measures will enhance the experiences of both teachers and students. The research team will now strengthen this model and test it under various conditions, potentially guiding future educational policies.
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