A teacher’s workload may be linked to students’ stress levels

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Burned-out teachers are leading to stressed-out students, according to a new study from UBC.

The lead author says we need more support in our classrooms.

Eva Oberle calls it a systemic issue — if teachers are feeling over-worked, it will be reflected by their students.

Her study found cortisol levels in students were higher when their teachers complained about feeling burned out. Oberle says those levels are a key indicator of stress.

“We had students basically collect some saliva in a little tube at several points throughout the day and what we found is in classrooms in which teachers reported higher burnout rates, students also had elevated morning cortisol levels.”

Oberle feels the answer begins with more education for teachers.

“This starts with really providing appropriate training to teachers — helping them develop the skills to manage classrooms effectively, but also helping them to develop the skills to take themselves and to ensure their own well being.”

Higher cortisol levels in elementary school children have been linked to learning difficulties as well as mental health problems.

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today