Stress and Job Satisfaction among Primary Headteachers

Abstract

This article reports levels of perceived stress and job satisfaction among primary headteachers. Around half reported high levels of occupational stress but some half were satisfied with their work. Sources of stress and job satisfaction were examined under four headings: managing oneself and others; managing finances; managing the curriculum; and managing change. The highest levels of satisfaction came from personal factors and organizational factors. School organization was a source of stress and of satisfaction. The lowest level of satisfaction was with the level of social support. Two subgroups reporting ‘very high’ levels of stress differed markedly in levels of job satisfaction—one ‘very satisfied’, the other ‘not satisfied’. These differences were related to gender and perceived sources of job satisfaction and stress.