Understanding teacher emotional exhaustion: exploring the role of teaching motivation, perceived autonomy, and teacher–student relationships

Abstract

IntroductionThis research investigates the complex interplay of factors influencing teacher emotional exhaustion within the educational environment. It draws upon a diverse sample of 680 teachers from 15 primary educational institutions in various districts of Shanghai, China.MethodsThe study examines the interrelationships among teacher-student relationships, perceived autonomy, teaching motivation, and emotional exhaustion. It employs validated scales to measure these constructs and utilizes Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) for analysis.ResultsThe analyses using SEM reveal significant associations among the variables under study. The findings indicate robust correlations between positive teacher-student relationships, perceived autonomy, and higher teaching motivation. Concurrently, these factors exhibit a negative relationship with emotional exhaustion.DiscussionMediation analysis further unveils that teaching motivation plays a significant mediating role in the associations between teacher-student relationships, perceived autonomy, and emotional exhaustion. This emphasizes the intricate indirect effects of these constructs.ConclusionThe study underscores the multifaceted nature of these factors and their collective impact on teacher well-being within educational settings. The implications derived highlight the importance for educational institutions to prioritize interventions fostering positive teacher-student relationships, autonomy-supportive environments, and intrinsic motivation among educators. These interventions aim to alleviate emotional exhaustion and enhance teacher well-being.

Indonesian Primary School Teachers’ Work-Related Stress, Emotional Exhaustion, and Job Performance: A Survey Study in Southern Papua

“…Emotional exhaustion stands as a fundamental dimension of occupational burnout within the educational landscape (Seidler et al, 2014;Wang et al, 2024), encapsulating the profound impact of chronic stress and overwhelming demands on individuals' psychological well-being and professional efficacy (Chang, 2009;Klusmann et al, 2023). Its widespread influence permeates every facet of individuals' lives, corroding their vitality, involvement, and sense of contentment, thereby demanding proactive interventions to alleviate its adverse effects and promote comprehensive recovery and resilience.…”