Description of psychosocial traits of preschool education teachers and investigation of correlations between these traits

Abstract

The aim of this research was to describe the psychosocial traits of preschool teachers and to investigate the correlations between these traits. Designed according to the relational screening method, participants in this research comprised 102 teachers working in independent preschools and preschool classes linked to primary schools in Canakkale province. To collect psychosocial data, the research used a personal information form, semi-structured interview form, the Empathic Tendency Scale, Ways of Coping Questionnaire, Satisfaction with Life Scale, Burnout Measures– Short Form and Self-Efficacy Scale. Findings obtained in the research showed that having a model (teacher, friend and family) was more effective than other factors in preschool teachers choosing this profession. Nearly, half of the teachers (49%) stated they would choose preschool teaching again if they had the chance, while the remaining teachers stated they would choose a different area of teaching or a different profession (theology, engineering, medicine, etc.).

Keywords: Preschool teachers, psychosocial, life satisfaction, burnout, coping with stress.