TEACHER WELL-BEING AND NEP 2020: A STUDY OF OCCUPATIONAL STRESS AMONG SCHOOL TEACHERS

Abstract

This study explores occupational stress among private school teachers in India and its impact on their well-being and professional life. Teaching is a demanding profession, and private school teachers face additional pressures such as long working hours, heavy workloads, performance-based evaluations, administrative duties, classroom management, and parental expectations. The introduction of NEP 2020 has added responsibilities, including outcome-based teaching, innovation, and continuous professional development, which further contribute to stress. Through a systematic review of recent studies, it was found that common causes of stress include workload, job insecurity, low or delayed salary, lack of recognition, poor management support, and limited opportunities for breaks or relaxation. Prolonged stress negatively affects teachers’ physical and mental health, leading to fatigue, sleep problems, anxiety, and burnout. It also reduces motivation, patience, creativity, and teaching quality, sometimes making teachers consider leaving the profession. Addressing these stressors is essential for improving teacher well-being and the quality of education.