A DISCUSSION OF THE MENTAL HEALTH OF PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHERS
Dr. Gary W. Ballou

Abstract
Mental Health of Teachers: Dr. Gary W. Ballou, Department of Education, Central Washington University – This study compared the likelihood of minor psychiatric disorders among teachers with civil servants. Using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), the study surveyed 403 teachers and 611 civil servants in a large city in Washington State (USA), with 59.6% of teachers and 62.0% of civil servants responding. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the proportion of teachers with MPD was greater than civil servants. The difference, however, was not statistically significant through multiple logistic regression analysis adjusted for potential confounders. Reduced job satisfaction and lack of leisure time were associated with an increase in MPD among teachers. Among civil servants, longer working hours, reduced life satisfaction, and physical illness were associated with an increase in MPD. Separate analysis for male and female teachers revealed that job dissatisfaction was associated with MPD only in female teachers.

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