Examining Occupational Stress Among Female Teachers In Bengaluru City: Implications For Well-Being And Job Satisfaction

Abstract

Stress is a sensation of tension, both physical and emotional, triggered by physiological, psychological, and environmental demands. Occupational Stress is recognised as a global issue among adults affecting all aspects of human life. Studies on occupational stress across various professions have identified teaching as one of the most stress-prone occupations, particularly among females. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the main factors causing stress among female teachers. The article aims to explore the phenomenon of occupational stress experienced by female teachers in Bengaluru, India. Two research questions were prepared to conduct the study. The study was primarily focussed on analysing the relationship between marital status and stress factors among the female teachers. Furthermore, an attempt to examine the impact of stress and strain factors of occupational stress on the wellbeing and job satisfaction of female teachers in Bengaluru is made in the study. These stressors can range from heavy workloads, long working hours, lack of support from colleagues and supervisors, inadequate pay, and a lack of recognition for their efforts. 105 target respondents were chosen from various colleges across the city using purposive sampling method and data was collected using structured questionnaires. The study reveals that female teachers experience occupational stress and strain due to several factors, including heavy workload, lack of autonomy, low pay, and challenging student behaviour. However, the study suggests that these stressors can be managed effectively through the implementation of various interventions.