Building Workplaces that Support the Mental Health of Novice Elementary and Junior High School Teachers

Direction and Issues

Abstract

　　 A questionnaire survey was conducted to determine the relationship between burnout and job stressors among novice elementary and junior high school teachers. Simultaneously, we conducted semi-structured interviews with ten novice faculty members using the TEM approach. Synthesizing these analyses confirmed that enhancing workplace collegiality effectively supports the mental health of novice teachers. Thus, the study results revealed the importance of schools becoming “learning organizations” and ensuring “psychological safety.” Accordingly, we believe that fostering an environment at work that enables top and middle leaders to offer mental support, provides a place for novice teachers to discuss their concerns, and enhances resilience through mutual exchanges will prevent burnout.