Research Analysis on Effects and Causes of Stress and Methods to Support Teachers in Reducing Stress in the Early Childhood Education field

Abstract

This literature review examines the complexity of teacher’s stress in the field of early childhood education. An environment that promotes quality childcare is highly dependent on the excellence of the teacher. Understanding the negative effects of stress on teachers and on the children they care for, helps to identify the importance in finding ways for teachers to manage their stress. High stress levels have negative effects on teachers’ psychological, physiological, and psychosomatic well-being. In addition, high stress in teachers has negative effects on the children in their care. Children, whose teachers report high stress, have hindered language, social-emotional, and cognitive development because of their teacher’s inability to provide a consistent environment. A teacher’s ability to cope with stress is dependent on their own personality, feelings, and perceptions regarding their stressors. Increased stress levels of teachers are also amplified due to environmental factors associated with the profession of teaching. The ABC-X stress model connects the interactions between the three factors associated with the way the stress is manifested. Specific resources such as professional development trainings and the establishment of a supportive program environment have positive results in assisting teachers and lowering their levels of stress.