Stressors and coping strategies amid Covid-19: A study with reference to college teachers

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to identify the main sources of stress and bring out different coping strategies used by teachers amid COVID-19 pandemic.Design/ Methodology/Approach: A sample of 80 teachers (males, 40;females, 40) was drawn using the rolling snowball sampling technique from various colleges of Haryana for a primary survey. Teachers were enrolled, regardless of their experience and type of college, to quicken the data collection process.Finding: The study brought forth several stressors the teachers grappled with during COVID-19. Prominent among these were fear of contracting COVID infection, pressure related to changing teaching circumstances, and learning new skills for online teaching. . The major coping strategies used by teachers include, staying updated regarding the disease and alert to the government guidelines, adopting preventive measures, keeping busy in different household activities, spending quality time with family members, developing a healthy lifestyle, and connecting with friends and colleagues. Originality/Value: The present study is an empirical investigation based on primary survey.Implications of the study: Based on the revelation of fear, stress and anxiety among teachers amid COVID-19. The study emphasizes that the strategies adopted by teachers will help others too in reducing stress and improving their mental health. It is also felt that counselling for mental wellbeing and training for using technology in the teaching learning process will act as stress busters. i 2 n