Work Stress and Satisfaction of Comprehensive School Teachers: An Interview Study

Abstract

Mykletun, R.J. 1985. Work Stress and Satisfaction in Comprehensive School Teachers: An Interview Study. Scandinavian Journal of Educational Research 29, 57‐71. The levels of stress and satisfaction at work in 73 comprehensive school teachers were investigated by a structured interview. Satisfaction was positively related to the negative affects labeled anger, helplessness and failure, all rated on ten points rating scales, but negatively related to frequencies of experiencing relaxation difficulties after work. Stress and satisfaction were primarily attributed to social interaction at work, but also to control over the work process, adequacy of job demands, and perception of meaning and pride from work. Anger and helplessness were the dominant negative emotions. These emotions may impair classroom climate, and be counterproductive to teacher effectiveness.