DUE DATE: 10 JULY 2024
Question 1
Read the abstract below and answer the questions that follow:
Self-Management for Teachers
Teachers face stressors from many sources. Too much work and not enough time.
Attending to their students’ needs. Dealing with parents. Pressure to meet academic
standards. The list goes on.
Most teachers have the sense to keep their cool and do what they can to get through
the day while staying professional. There are times when that is difficult. Sometimes
we feel on the verge of totally losing it. But there are strategies teachers can use to
manage stress, triggers, time and feel more in control in the classroom. (By Peyton,
2021)
Critically analyse and discuss the possible coping strategies for handling
stress. (10 marks)
One possible coping strategy for handling stress as a teacher is practicing mindfulness and relaxation
techniques. This may include deep breathing exercises, meditation, or guided imagery. Research has
shown that these techniques can help reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being (Kabat-Zinn,
2013). By taking a few minutes each day to practice these techniques, teachers can learn to manage
their stress more effectively.
Another coping strategy is to prioritize tasks and set realistic goals. Teachers often have an
overwhelming amount of work to do, so it is important for them to identify the most important tasks
and focus on completing those first. By setting realistic goals, teachers can avoid feeling overwhelmed
and can make progress on their work one step at a time (Hyland, 2019).
Seeking social support is also an important coping strategy. Teachers can benefit from talking to their
colleagues about their stressors and sharing strategies for managing them. This can provide a sense of
solidarity and help teachers realize they are not alone in their experiences (Lemyre & Boudrias, 2010).
Additionally, seeking support from friends, family, or a counselor can also be beneficial.
Engaging in self-care activities is another important coping strategy. Taking time for oneself to engage in
activities such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones can help reduce stress levels and
improve overall well-being (Penedo & Dahn, 2005). It is important for teachers to prioritize their own
well-being in order to effectively manage the stress they face in their profession.
Finally, seeking professional development and training in stress management techniques can be
beneficial. Many schools offer workshops or courses on stress management, and teachers can also seek
out resources and literature on the topic. By learning new strategies for managing stress, teachers can
improve their ability to cope with the demands of their profession (Gong et al., 2015).
In conclusion, there are numerous coping strategies that teachers can use to manage stress. By
practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques, prioritizing tasks, seeking social support, engaging in
self-care activities, and seeking professional development, teachers can effectively manage the stressors
they face in their profession.